In partnership with the Dollywood Foundation, United Way of Southwest Louisiana is working to bring Dolly Parton's Imagination Library to the children who need it most in Southwest Louisiana.
Educators emphasize that reading with a preschool child is the single most important activity to help prepare a child for success in school. For most families, books are a common part of a preschoolers regular routine.
What happens when parents cannot afford books, take time off work to go to the library or do not have transportation to get to the library?
Nationally, studies have shown that as many as 61% of low-income families do not have age-appropriate books for children in their home. It is estimated that as many as 2,788 preschool-age children from low-income families in Southwest Louisiana do not have access to books simply because their families cannot afford them. Children entering school without basic literacy skills often struggle academically throughout their education. This can put a strain on family, school and community resources throughout a child's education.
My child gets so excited when he receives his book every month, and I get excited because it is helping prepare him for school.
- Parent of an Imagination Library Recipient in Southwest Louisiana
Your gift to United Way of Southwest Louisiana can help preschoolers have access to books and prepare them for school.
