United Way of the Brazos Valley hosted their Boo! Book Bash, a free book giveaway, at the 2019 BooFest, presented by the Brazos Valley Bombers and H-E-B, on Oct. 27 and gave away 613 free books to children and teens. The goal of United Way of the Brazos Valley’s seasonal Book Bash events is to encourage the love of reading and provide access to books.
Each child was able to select their own book to take home with them from a wide selection of topics, genres, and reading levels, including books appropriate for babies, toddlers, children, and teens. There were also other activities available as a part of BooFest including: games, food trucks, and costume contests.
“As a parent, I see the power and magic that happens when a child is read to,” says Alison Prince, president/CEO of United Way of the Brazos Valley. “The light comes on and the imagination soars. I know there are kids in our community that won’t hold a book that is theirs until kindergarten. And that just isn’t good enough for United Way, which is why we are holding seasonal Book Bashes to help improve access to books for children.”
Two-thirds of children living in poverty grow up with no books at home. Studies show that the number of books in the home is directly linked to reading achievement. Children who grow up with more access to books in their homes reach a higher level of education. United Way of the Brazos Valley is tackling this issue to support early literacy for all children in the Brazos Valley as part of the organization’s 2020 Regional Bold Goals.
United Way of the Brazos Valley fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in the Brazos Valley. They strengthen the community by identifying issues facing the Brazos Valley, engaging individuals to build strategies, and mobilizing resources to invest in change. United Way invests through Community Impact Grants to local nonprofit organizations and Investment Initiatives including 2-1-1 Texas, Youth Leadership Cabinet, Early Literacy programs, and the Financial Stability Innovation Fund.
United Way of the Brazos Valley’s next early literacy event, Jingle Book Bash, will take place at Post Oak Mall on Dec. 7, 14, and 21 from 10am to 3pm. To support United Way of the Brazos Valley and to learn more about its impact in the community, visit www.uwbv.org.
