Wed, Apr 2 from 9:00am
to 6:00pm
Toys for Tots to Provide Books to Local Libraries
The local Toys for Tots Literacy Program has begun providing books to local libraries to help support literacy in our area. “We already have requests for over 1,000 books from our local libraries to be provided to summer reading participants,” Matthew Yarnell, Toys for Tots Coordinator, indicated. “This is a great opportunity for youth of our area to foster their love of reading and grow their own personal libraries,” mentioned Star City Librarian, Simone Kirk.
To help meet this demand for summer reading and our additional need to provide books this Christmas, the local Toys for Tots Literacy Program is extending its book drive through April. Books in new condition for youth aged 0-18 can be dropped off at local libraries (Fordyce, Rison, Watson Chaple, White Hall, Pine Bluff, and Star City), The Rison Pharmacy, The Rison United Methodist Church, and JB’s Restaurant in Star City. “We are looking for books that will help make kids smile and expand their imaginations,” said Yarnell. “This includes picture books for toddlers, early reading books for emergent readers, young adult novels, coloring books, activity books, cookbooks, and music books are all needed.”
We are also seeking financial donations to help with literacy in our area. Checks or money orders can be made out to Toys for Tots and sent to PO Box 199, Rison, AR. 71665, or dropped off at the Cleveland County Hearld Office or Rison United Methodist Church. You can also donate to the local campaign online at https://pine-bluff-ar.toysfortots.org.
The Toys for Tots Literacy Program not only brings the joy of reading to less fortunate children, but also serves as an important tool in breaking the cycle of poverty. We aim to help area youth compete academically and to succeed in life by providing them direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively. Yet, we need your help in order to make this happen. Please share your love of reading with others and help lay the tracks for area youth by jumping on the Toys for Tots train today.
