According to the article, “Science Says: A Book-Filled Home Has Benefits Beyond Reading for Kids,” at Scholastic, “Findings published in the journal Social Science Research show that raising a child in a home filled with books positively impacts future academic growth and job attainment…

So, how many books are we talking about? The study shows literacy levels surging at 80 books. Being surrounded by lots and lots of books where they live helps children, “build vocabulary, increase awareness and comprehension, and expand horizons.”

At Success Won’t Wait, we are continually looking for organizations we can partner with, in order to get these important books into the hands (and homes!) of children. One organization that is making great strides in this direction is the Pottstown NAACP. The Pottstown NAACP emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support the local community, and a desire for actions that truly speak louder than words. Established in 2000, this organization is driven by progressive ideas and bold actions.

The group has made over 6,000 books available to local children of all ages – in a brand new program just established in October 2023. And, with many more book giveaway events coming this spring, that number will only continue to climb. Here are just a few of the organizations and entities that have partnered with Pottstown NAACP with book giveaways and book baskets:

• Food pantry run by the Cluster of Religious Communities
• Local HeadStart classrooms
• Family Services, for in-home visits to people in need
• WIC (Women, Infants and Children federal nutrition program)
• Salvation Army family shelter
• Local daycare centers serving lower income families
• Diaper bank run by St. Paul UCC
• CCLU and ACLAMO
• Local housing communities serving lower income families
• H&R Block (when families bring in their kids)
• Community Health & Dental, serving lower income families
• Pottstown School District
• Local barber shops and salons (when families bring in their kids)

This week, Success Won’t Wait volunteers provided a third donation, this time for 150+ pre-K through 3rd grade books, for Pottstown NAACP events. (Stay tuned for photos of book giveaway events by the group!)

Many thanks to Bob and Sandy Bauers (pictured) who coordinated the donation! Click here to learn more about Pottstown NAACP.

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s literacy projects, how to donate used books in Delaware, or volunteer your time? Click on the About Us tab above. Read now, because success won’t wait!