Young readers throughout Kentucky will soon receive a wonderful boost in their literacy journey, thanks to a significant grant awarded to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Kentucky.
On Monday morning, the Kentucky Association of Health Plans announced a generous donation of $100,000 to support Parton’s non-profit initiative. Katherine North, representing the association, emphasized the program’s importance, stating, “It’s the curling up on a lap, it’s having something of your own, it’s flipping through the pages and being inspired; it’s the wonderful seeds we’re planting into our youth.”
This substantial contribution will allow even more children across all 120 counties in Kentucky to benefit from free books. The Imagination Library provides children who enroll with one free book each month from the time they are born until they turn five, promoting early literacy and a love for reading.
Hank Suttles, a young participant, joyfully mentioned, “Sometimes I get free magazines, and sometimes I get free books!” during the announcement event, which included the First Lady of Kentucky, Britainy Beshear.
Parents interested in signing their children up for this valuable program can do so through the designated website.
This initiative not only aids in developing essential literacy skills but also fosters a love for reading from a young age. Such efforts are vital in ensuring that children across Kentucky have the opportunity to develop their reading abilities and imagination, setting a solid foundation for their future education.
By engaging with the community and supporting literacy, Kentucky is taking important strides toward creating a brighter future for its young citizens.