The Gift of Reading
The Gift of Reading program is for underprivileged children aged 0 to 12 from across Quebec and aims to prevent reading and writing difficulties that may lead to school dropout, and then illiteracy in Quebec.
The Gift of Reading, what is it?
Since 1999, The Gift of Reading program has made reading accessible to underprivileged children aged 0 to 12. To read is to equip yourself to succeed!
Every year, thanks to The Gift of Reading program, thousands of children receive brand new children’s books.
For underprivileged children, this book is often the first new book they receive. They appreciate it all the more as the books are chosen by a donor specifically for them.
This initiative helps to create a special bond with books and to prevent reading and writing difficulties that could lead to school dropout and then to illiteracy in Quebec.
The sooner children are put in contact with books, the better their relationship with reading will be throughout their life. Enjoying reading leads to academic success.
The Gift of Reading in numbers!
More than
1 300 000
books distributed since 1999
More than
160
collection points across Quebec
More than
950
participating establishments
Who can organize a book drive activity?
Whether you are an individual, a representative from a community organization or a business, you can organize a book drive for underprivileged children.
It is also possible to make a donation. Funds raised can be used for the purchase of books and program logistics, including the costs for shipping the books to the children.
Allow a child to discover the joys of reading:
Make a donation
Donate a book
Organize a book drive.
Where do the books go?
Once the collection activities are complete, the Foundation team sorts the books received to ensure the quality and conformity of the titles that will be offered to children, in addition to dividing them by age group. The books collected are then distributed to children, in all regions, according to their language of instruction. In total, more than 380 French and English schools, 360 early childhood centres and daycares and 180 family and community organizations have benefited from the program.
The Literacy Foundation and its large network of committed individuals make it possible to distribute books to as many children as possible.
Schools
The participating schools receive the books and distribute them to the students within the context of a dedicated activity.
Childcare centres
As with schools, childcare centres in underpriveleged areas are targeted. All children, within the centre,are given a new book.
Family and community organizations
Family and community organizations give books to children who attend the activities of the participating organizations. These organizations are located in working-class areas and reach both parents and children.
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
