ESL courses help new immigrants in emergency shelters prepare for workforce

Families in the state's emergency shelter system now have a nine-month limit on their stay, following the passage of a funding bill imposing the cap. After that, they have to leave unless they qualify for certain extensions.

Since that rule went into effect in April, finding work has become an even bigger priority for those living in shelters. But a big barrier to employment for many newly-arrived immigrants in the system is a lack of English language skills.

Radio Boston learns about several local programs are trying to help more people clear that hurdle.