United Way of Central Iowa collected more than 30,000 children's books at this year's Stuff the Bus book drive, thanks to local community members and 25 organizations that donated.These books are now on their way to more than 100 child care centers, in-home providers, school-based programs and youth programs across Polk, Dallas and Warren counties.Book …
United Way of Central Iowa collected thousands of books at annual Stuff the Bus drive – The Des Moines Register
United Way of Central Iowa collected more than 30,000 children’s books at this year’s Stuff the Bus book drive, thanks to local community members and 25 organizations that donated.
These books are now on their way to more than 100 child care centers, in-home providers, school-based programs and youth programs across Polk, Dallas and Warren counties.
Book distribution also will open to the public Thursday, May 15, at 1111 Ninth St. in Des Moines. There’s no need to sign up, but it is first come, first serve. There is no limit to the number of books you can take, so long as you are serving a program or center.
Available times are:
Alternate time and date requests are not available. For more information, you can contact Joy Talmon at joy.talmon@unitedwaydm.org.
This year’s Stuff the Bus book drive emphasized collecting books for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, according to a news release.
United Way of Central Iowa said the organization recognizes the important role early brain development plays in school readiness and children’s long-term success.
“At United Way of Central Iowa, we know that a thriving community starts with a strong foundation in education, and that foundation is built early,” said Mary Sellers, president of United Way of Central Iowa. “Only 63% of third graders in central Iowa are reading proficiently—a number that has declined by 2.5% over the past year. Through initiatives like Stuff the Bus, we’re working together to change that story.”
Organizations and individuals were encouraged to collect new and like-new children’s books, according to a news release, with a special emphasis on non-fiction, STEM-related, bilingual and inclusive stories featuring diverse characters.
Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR.
