HOUSTON, TX (Feb. 8, 2022) – Research shows that increasing access to books not only improves attitudes toward reading and learning but has a long-term positive impact on academic outcomes. Recognizing that lower-income children don’t have the same level of access to a variety of books compared to other households, United Way of Greater Houston is hosting a book drive for elementary students throughout the city leading up to Read Across America Day on March 2, 2022.
From now until February 25, the organization is offering several ways to support the drive, including an online wish list, hosting a company or community organization drive, or through a monetary donation that will then be used to purchase books at a discounted rate. The book drive will culminate with a Read Across America Day celebration where United Way volunteers will distribute the books to several elementary schools in the Houston Independent School District.
“We know that getting books into the hands of young children can have a profound impact on their academic trajectory, especially when books are available at an earlier age,” said Emily Faron, director, volunteer engagement, United Way of Greater Houston. “This is a great opportunity for families, companies, churches, or community organizations to support local youth.”
Recognizing that many children’s books lack characters from diverse backgrounds, United Way of Greater Houston has compiled a list of books featuring diverse characters that are written and illustrated by people of color in honor of Black History Month. Donors can choose from this list of books on the online wish list, which can be found here.
For more information on the book drive and how to host one, visit www.unitedwayhouston.org/mlk-bookdrive or email Emily Faron, efaron@unitedwayhouston.org.
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About United Way of Greater Houston For nearly 100 years, United Way of Greater Houston has brought together diverse partners and approaches to address the complex challenges holding people back. We are a driving force for good that connects our neighbors with opportunities to thrive. We help our neighbors achieve financial stability. We provide services that support the physical and behavioral health of families and youth along with educational services that expand their skills and horizons. We provide a safety net that catches the most vulnerable. We manage every donation with care to make the greatest impact across the four-county region of Fort Bend, Harris, Montgomery and Waller counties. We connect neighbors with help 24/7 through our 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE. For more information, please visit, http://unitedwayhouston.org.