For over a decade, thousands of local kids have taken part in the Ontario Library Association’s Forest of Reading Program.
The goal of the program is to develop recognition for Canadian authors and Canadian books and to provide teachers, librarians and parents with a meaningful tool for improving literacy in schools and libraries.
Each year, Avon Maitland students, along with kids from across the province, register through their schools with the Ontario Library Association to vote on their favourite books from the Canadian authors.
See 2014’s Nominees
“Acquiring the books involves a considerable investment of several hundred dollars from the school plus a registration fee to enter the competition,” states Foundation Executive Director Wes MacVicar
From annual support received from the community, the Foundation For Education has invited applications from the schools in the Avon Maitland District School Board for grants from their Canadian Reading Fund to assist in the book purchases and the registration fee.
Historically, $3500 is annually disbursed from the Foundation’s FOREST OF READING Canadian Reading Fund to over 30 schools.
“The excitement of the teachers and students upon receipt of these grants is quite overwhelming,” remarks MacVicar.
“These grants have a huge impact on expanding schools’ reading programs and encouraging young readers and we are again looking to our very supportive community to assist us in making these grants available through a donation to the Foundation’s Canadian Reading Fund.”
Online donations to this fund can be made quickly and securely by clicking
Donations may also be made by cash or cheque. Please see Ways to Give.
All donations are fully tax creditable.