Fox 4 is owned by E.W. Scripps, and every year for “National Reading Day,” our company’s charitable organization, the Scripps Howard Foundation, commits to raising money to put books in the hands of kids in need.
Studies show kids who grow up with books in their homes have a major advantage over children who do not. “National Reading Day” is in January, but Fox 4 is raising money now to make sure these kids get the books they need and deserve.
In January of this year, Fox 4 celebrated “National Reading Day” with a book fair at Franklin Park Elementary School in Fort Myers. We were able to bring in 1,200 books for each child to pick from, and take one home.
“When they walked in, their eyes lit up. They were just so excited. They could see all the different books and they had the opportunity to choose any book they wanted. And then they said, ‘Do I get to keep it?’ and I go, ‘Absolutely, this is your book! You're going to get to put your name in it and bring it home.’ And they’re like, ‘Really? This is my first book!’ some of them. And a lot of them don't have libraries at home,” Franklin Park Elementary School teacher Brie Babyak said.
Studies show learning to read at an early age is a true predictor of future success.
“They were really, truly passionate about the books, and hugged them and loved them, and took them home and read them. And they're like, ‘Ms. Babyak, will you read my book today?’ And I'm like, ‘Of course,’ and we'll spread out the love and try to read as many books as possible,” she said.
You have the power to help Fox 4 make this difference for “National Reading Day” 2021. And Ms. Babyak said just seeing the kids’ faces during our last book fair is enough encouragement to get involved.
“When you see how happy and excited they are to actually receive a book that's going to belong to them, be the reason and make the difference for a kid's life. Any little bit helps! Please send those donations. We want our kids reading and enjoying and fostering the love of reading. They're our future,” she said.
If you’d like to donate, click here. All donations will help kids in Southwest Florida.
