Newman's Own Foundation awards $5,000 grant to Link to Libraries for programs

Date: 10/13/2009

SPRINGFIELD Newman's Own Foundation, Westport, Conn., has given a grant of $5,000 to Link to Libraries, based in East Longmeadow, to help promote literacy and develop a "Read-A-Loud" Program at public elementary schools and non-profit organizations in Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut. The funds will also be used to to provide new literature to students and their families, libraries, hospitals and other places throughout the area. Children in the Link to Libraries Programs receive free books to share with care-givers, family members and friends.

Link to Libraries co-founder Susan Jaye-Kaplan stated, "We are tremendously honored that the Newman's Own Foundation has decided to join us in our mission. We are honored to be chosen by this world renowned foundation. This grant will have substantial economic impact in our mission to enhance local libraries."

It is noted that 60 percent of the kindergartners in neighborhoods where children did poorly in school did not own a single book. By establishing and adding to book libraries in public schools and non-profit organizations, Link to Libraries has made a difference. Educators know that effective teaching must begin at the earliest ages with effective literacy practices.