English classes for speakers of other languages are being held at several hotels across New York City that are currently providing housing to asylum seekers. 

Manuel Castro, commissioner of the mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, says the new program will help protect new immigrants from being scammed or taking unfair wages from employers.  

“Adding English language is so important for people to navigate life here in New York City, to prevent them from being taken advantage of by employers that might be trying to pay them under minimum wage,” said Castro.   

The city says about 500 people have already enrolled in the courses at five of the city’s humanitarian centers.