Spread holiday cheer by gifting books for disadvantaged kids in metro Detroit
With the festive season fast approaching, the World Literacy Foundation is gearing up to deliver its cherished Christmas book packs to children from highly disadvantaged and low-income backgrounds across Detroit.
Shockingly, an estimated 61% of these children do not own a single book.
This heartwarming initiative is run in partnership with USA Reads, a project dedicated to inspiring a lifelong love of reading by bringing excitement and imagination to the pages of a book.
Speaking in Detroit recently, Andrew Kay, CEO of the World Literacy Foundation, highlighted the urgent need for action.
Up to 60% of 10-year-olds struggle to read
“In our region, between 40 to 60% of 10-year-old children from low socioeconomic backgrounds struggle to read a sentence,” Kay said. “Without basic literacy skills, their future prospects for education and employment are grim. The holiday season offers a wonderful opportunity to put suitable books into the hands of kids, sparking curiosity, creativity and a thirst for knowledge.”
Following the successful distribution of 2,600 literacy packs in Detroit in 2024, the Foundation hopes to double the number of books shared with children this festive season.
This project is made possible by the incredible compassion and dedication of book lovers and volunteers throughout Detroit, who give their time to distribute book packs and share their passion for reading with those less fortunate.
USA Reads unites communities
Now in its 12th year, USA Reads is uniting local schools, small businesses and community groups to donate books, fundraise and volunteer, ensuring that every child has the chance to discover the joy of reading and break the cycle of illiteracy.
Each Christmas book pack is thoughtfully curated, containing age-appropriate books and educational resources designed to encourage both reading and writing.
You can help make this Christmas brighter for children in need. Whether you have time to spare, items to donate or wish to contribute financially, no matter how big or small, visit the World Literacy Foundation website to get involved.
Your support will help spread festive cheer where it’s needed most.
