HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A local resident who helped with a special book drive last year in Reno County is holding another one as the school year approaches.
Sarah Reade is teaming up with Reno County First Call for Help for the third year to add brand new books to the backpacks of area students in need.
“Everyone’s hope is to have the kids safely in school," Reade said. "If, for some reason, distance learning becomes a reality again I want our local children to have access to books in their homes. It’s essential.”
Statistics show there is one age-appropriate book for every three hundred children in low-income areas. This is a statistic Reade hopes to put a dent in within the local community. Last year, with Reno County First Call for Help and local community members, over 400 books were provided to area students. This year the goal has doubled.
“This is the third year for this book drive and each year it grows. Our hope is to be able to provide two books for each child that comes to First Call for Help for a backpack,” Reade said.
Usborne Books & More will match 50% of every dollar donated to the drive and Reade has sponsorship levels for local businesses. The book drive will run through July 20th.
If you would like to donate or find out how you can be part of this effort, you can contact Reade at [email protected] or visit the fundraising website at https://chuffed.org/project/booksforbackpacks.