Books for Collier Kids, a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization that provides new books to children in low-income families throughout Collier County, was recently awarded grants from the United Church of Marco Island and the Greater Marco Island Community Fund of the Collier Community Foundation.
The grants, totaling $10,000, ensure all students in kindergarten through second grade at Tommie Barfield and pre-K through second grade at Manatee Elementary will receive a new book every month of the school year.
“The United Church of Marco Island and Greater Marco Island Community Fund grants ensure new, personalized, age-appropriate books are provided to students at Manatee and Tommie Barfield elementary schools where, on average, more than 50% of the children are from economically disadvantaged families,” said Chair Sallie Williams. “These are books that they read, share with loved ones and cherish for a lifetime while developing the literacy skills needed for success in school and life!”
Launched in 2005 as First Book-Collier County, the group has distributed more than two million new, age-appropriate and personalized books to students.
For more information on Books for Collier Kids, visit BooksforCollierKids.org.
Marco Eagle – Will Watts, Special to the Eagle
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