May 28, 2021

Salina Area United Way organizes children’s book drive

Posted May 28, 2021 12:02 PM
<b>Youngsters pick out free books during the Salina Area United Way's RAWR Week of Action in the summer of 2020. </b>Photo courtesy Salina Area United Way
Youngsters pick out free books during the Salina Area United Way's RAWR Week of Action in the summer of 2020. Photo courtesy Salina Area United Way

The Salina Area United Way is restocking its children's book supply and it needs your help!

The organization is hosting a children’s book drive beginning Tuesday and running through June 11. Drop off new and gently used children’s books (birth through high school reading levels) at 113 N. Seventh Street between 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“Because the Salina Area United Way’s summer reading program, Raising Active Wild Readers, successfully distributed 2,030 books last summer, we need to restock. The RAWR program is asking for donations of picture books and board books, beginning and advanced chapter books, graphic novels, and culturally diverse books,” said Brenda Gutierrez, program director for the Salina Area United Way.

The Salina Area United Way is partnering with the USD 305 Summer Meal Service Program for the book distribution. After kids pick up their free curbside lunch, their next stop can be for a free book. Children are encouraged to make their book selection, or United Way staff and volunteers will assist children who choose to remain in the vehicle.  

“Books in the home are a crucial element of early reading. Ultimately, reading ability impacts career choices as an adult. Good readers have brighter futures,” said Deb Kohn, USD 305 School To Career coordinator.

Show your support! Join Salina Area United Way’s initiatives to improve early grade reading proficiency and to keep students on track for high school graduation to be college or career ready.

-SAUW-