Columbia Kids Get 3,800 New Books From United Way

Columbia elementary students have a few more pages to turn, after Heart of Missouri United Way gave out 3,800 new books at five schools this week. The nonprofit announced it partnered with Columbia Public Schools on a “Read Across Columbia” event Thursday, Oct. 29, at Parkade Elementary School to kick off the giveaway to first- and second-graders across five Columbia elementary schools.

Which schools are getting books?

Parkade Elementary hosted the event itself, with first- and second-graders there picking out new books on the spot. First- and second-graders at Battle, Derby Ridge, Shepard, and West Boulevard elementary schools are also getting books through the program, Heart of Missouri United Way said, even though those schools didn’t host an event of their own.

The books are free, new, and age-appropriate — picked for the age group doing the reading, not handed out as a box of mixed donations.

What else comes with the books?

Each student also leaves with a coupon for one more free book from the Daniel Boone Regional Library — the same library system that runs the bookmobile stopping on Central Street in Rocheport every other Thursday.

“Reading is an essential part of every child’s education,” said Talia Jackson, president and CEO of Heart of Missouri United Way, who added that it builds critical thinking and opens doors to opportunities down the road.

Heart of Missouri United Way says the giveaway is part of its literacy work with Columbia Public Schools, alongside the fundraising and grant-making it’s better known for locally. Readers who want to know more, or who want to get involved, can reach the United Way office at (573) 443-4523.