Promote Literacy through United2Read Book Donations

Putnam Family and Community Services, Inc. (PFCS) is thankful for the United2Read program’s recent donation of books to promote literacy among its youngest clients. United2Read’s mission is to improve students’ reading outcomes and close achievement gaps for high-need students.

United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Alana Sweeny, and Peter West, Director of Resource Development, visited PFCS’ newly remodeled children’s therapeutic playroom to personally deliver over 45 reading kits in bright red and blue bags. The kits will be distributed to children in PFCS’ Family Empowerment Program as well as given to children who receive supportive services at PFCS for social, emotional, and mental health issues.

Founded by the United Way of Westchester and Putnam, United2Read’s recent book drive resulted in 5000 books collected for families in need throughout the two counties. Once the books were collected, volunteers came together to assemble “reading kits” that include age-appropriate books, activity cards for children and their families that are written in both English and Spanish, worksheets, pencils, stickers, and information on community resources.

"Reading is fundamental to a child's future success in school and beyond. 61% of low income minority children do not have one children's book in the home and come to school already behind. United2Read aims to change that paradigm," states Sweeny. 

“We are excited to receive and be able to share the books and information from the United2Read program. The reading kits are a wonderful tool for our staff to use as they help clients make positive changes in their lives,” adds Diane Russo, Chief Executive Officer at PFCS.

PFCS offers a broad range of services for people of all ages to address mental health needs, social and emotional issues, and substance use prevention and treatment. For more information about PFCS and its services, visit www.pfcsinc.org or call (845) 225-2700. 

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Submitted by Brewster, NY

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