The United Way is asking San Diegans to donate for book purchases so that children from low-income households do not fall behind in reading proficiency over the summer.
“Many economically disadvantaged families have little or no access to reading material when school is out, and our goal is to help remedy that by providing enjoyable, age-appropriate options,” said Kevin Crawford, president and CEO of United Way of San Diego County.
Last year, the United Way raised $62,000 to purchase of nearly 25,000 books.
Crawford said a donation of just $20 will buy books for eight young readers. Individuals and companies are encouraged to make any size donation online at www.UWSD.org.
The United Way said the rate at which children from low-income households fall behind in reading proficiency over the summer is alarming – two grade levels behind their peers by the end of fifth grade.
The book drive goes through May 15 and will provide bilingual summer reading for economically disadvantaged San Diego children up to age eight.
This year’s books have a double benefit by helping kids focus on healthy eating: “Growing Vegetable Soup”/ “A Sembrar Sopa de Verduras” and “Farmers Market”/ “Día de Mercado.”
The drive culminates on United Way’s annual Day of Action on June 21, when 100 volunteers will begin packing books and writing notes to kids. Children throughout the county will receive their own book, a bookmark with an inspirational note, and bilingual reading tips for their parents. Books will be distributed at 25 locations across San Diego County.
The book drive is sponsored by Boyer Moving & Storage, Cal Water, GEICO, Pratt & Whitney Aeropower, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority and the Women’s Leadership Council of United Way.
