The Salina Area United Way is hosting a children’s book drive Monday through June 12.
Drop off new and gently used children’s books (birth through high school reading levels) at 210 E. Walnut, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“The Salina Area United Way’s summer reading program, Raising Active Wild Readers, will help children in Salina tackle two important issues this summer. Summer learning loss, which is the loss of academic skills that occurs when school is out, and access to 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 Grab-and-Go lunch, their next stop can be for a free book. United Way staff will display books, and children, remaining in the vehicle, will read the book’s title or point to make their selection. Free book distribution days and locations will be determined following the book drive Monday-June 12.
For participants health and safety, SAUW will follow the CDC guidance for COVID-19. “We ask that you place books in a clean box or bag for drop off. There will be a book donation table just inside the door at 210 E. Walnut, Suite 100,” said Gutierrez. “Drop off times are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” Gutierrez added.
All new and gently used books will set untouched for 72 hours before cleaning and sanitizing.
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.
For more information about Salina Area United Way, visit www.unitedwaysalina.org or contact Salina Area United Way at 785-827-1312.