The local Toys for Tots Literacy Program covering Cleveland, Dallas, Jefferson, and Lincoln Counties is holding a book drive in March with the objective of collecting new or like-new/gently-used reading books, picture books, cookbooks, activity books, etc. for youth in need, at-risk youth, and youth in foster care for all ages 0-18. Drop box locations include, but are not limited to, The Rison Baptist Church, The Rison United Methodist Church, The Rison Library, Cleveland County Hearld Office, and several Dollar Generals in the area. We are also seeking financial donations to help with this book drive and our Foster Care Initiative. Checks or money orders can be made out to Toys for Tots and sent to PO Box 199, Rison, AR. 71665, or dropped off at the Cleveland County Hearld Office or Rison United Methodist Church. You can also donate to the local campaign online at https://pine-bluff-ar.toysfortots.org. In 2024, Toys for Tots in our area was able to give away an average of 1.3 toys to nearly 3,600 youth in our area. However, we were only able to give away an average of 0.7 books to those youth, meaning that not everyone got a book. Therefore, we would like to rectify that in 2025.The Toys for Tots Literacy Program not only brings the joy of reading to less fortunate children, but also serves as an important tool in breaking the cycle of poverty. We aim to help area youth compete academically and to succeed in life by providing them direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively. Yet, we need your help in order to make this happen. Please share your love of reading with others and help lay the tracks for area youth by jumping on the Toys for Tots train today.Sincerely,Matthew Yarnell, Toys for Tots Coordinator...
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