The Toys For Tots Literacy Program
Mission:
The Toys for Tots Literacy Program (TFTLP) is a year-round initiative, offering our nation's most economically disadvantaged children the ability to compete academically and to succeed in life by providing them direct access to resources that will enhance their ability to read and to communicate effectively.
Background:
For more than 60 years, Toys for Tots has been bringing smiles to the faces of needy children through the gift of a new toy. While Toys for Tots is committed to this tradition and will continue its toy program, it will be extending its reach through the Toys for Tots Literacy Program.
Expanding on an existing partnership, The UPS Store network and Toys for Tots are coming together to support children not just during the holidays, but year-round through the gift of books and educational materials. This new initiative, called the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, will maintain the Toys for Tots mission of delivering hope and inspiration and will allow them to extend their reach and impact in a very meaningful way by providing children in need with the tools that can help them break the cycle of poverty.
How It Works:
Books and cash donations made through The Toys for Tots Literacy Program will be directed to libraries, schools, and existing educational programs for children in need. All money donated locally to the Toys for Tots Literacy Program will go help children in the communities where the funds were raised.
How to Support:
Donate cash or new books at participating The UPS Store locations. Donations are also accepted online at www.toysfortotsliteracy.org. Customers can check with their local The UPS Store locations to find out if they will be conducting book drives. To find a location nearest you, go to www.theupsstore.com
Literacy Facts & Figures:
• According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 12.8 million children live in
poverty. That number is greater than the combined populations of
New York City and Los Angeles.
• In 2007, the National Center for Educational Statistics released its
annual "Reading Report," which asserts that 33 percent of all fourth
graders in this country still cannot read at even the basic level.