HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A new partnership between United Way of Reno County (UWRC) and the City of Hutchinson Fire Department (HFD) aims to get books directly into the hands of children when they need them most.
Using books from the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, operated by UWRC, a collection of age-appropriate reading kits will be delivered to local fire stations for firefighters to offer to children as they respond on calls in community.
The project will officially launch at 10 a.m. Friday, September 25, at Hutchinson Fire Department Station 1. The launch event will coincide with a special day, recently named “Give Like Dolly” day, highlighting the Imagination Library and encouraging philanthropy-- making it a fitting occasion to celebrate the importance of literacy, generosity and community partnerships.
“Books have the power to comfort, inspire and open up new worlds for children,” said Elizabeth Walton, manager of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program with UWRC. “This project allows these books the special purpose of offering children a little comfort or distraction in a difficult moment. We hope this small gesture can make a meaningful difference.”
The partnership also demonstrates how community organizations can find creative ways to extend the impact of existing resources.
“Unfortunately, children do not always have the opportunity to remove themselves from the trauma and difficult situations they witness,” said Jeremy Unruh, Fire Chief with the City of Hutchinson Fire Department. “If the men and women of HFD can provide these children with something positive and redirect their attention toward something good, we can hopefully make their situation a little better. It will be an honor for HFD to participate in this partnership and extend our reach into the community. Making a positive impact in the lives of others is an important part of our responsibility to the community we serve.”