Naples – Books for Collier Kids (BCK), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a steady stream of new books to children in low-income families throughout Collier County, was awarded a $14,805 grant from The League Club’s Community Trust Fund.

“This generous support allows Books for Collier Kids to purchase 6,580 new, age-appropriate books for 658 students in pre-k, kindergarten, first and second grades at two newly designated Title I elementary schools, improving their literacy and changing their lives,” explains BCK Board Chair Sallie Williams.

Part of the $343,743 The League Club’s awarded to 35 area charities during an April 4 event, the funds help BCK provide high-quality, age- and curriculum appropriate books to 658 students in Calusa Park and Sabal Palm elementary schools, ensuring each will receive a new title every month during the next school year.

The League Club is a 501(c)(3) organization of women in Southwest Florida strengthening communities through fellowship, education, volunteerism and philanthropy. The League Club is open to women who have been or still are active members of a Junior League, that is a member of the Association of Junior Leagues International.

As President Charlene Barnette noted, “For over three decades The League Club has strengthened this community through our philanthropic grants and volunteerism. This year, our Commitment to Community is stronger than ever. We believe this is essential to human well-being in Collier and Lee counties. Working together with our members, supporters, and business sponsors, we are able to make a difference in Collier and Lee Counties.”

The mission of Books for Collier Kids is to provide new books to children in need, addressing one of the most important factors affecting literacy: access to books. Launched in 2005 as First Book-Collier County, BCK has distributed more than one million new, high-quality, age-appropriate and personalized books to pre-K, kindergarten, first- and second-grade students in-need to transform their lives.

The charity partners with more than 20 local organizations, including the Collier County Public Schools, Friends of Foster Children Forever, Fun Time Early Childhood Academy, Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, Guadalupe Center, Grace Place for Children and Families and Christ Child Society of Naples.

For more information please call Sallie Williams, Board Chair at 239.394.4062. To learn more about Books for Collier Kids, visit www.BooksforCollierKids.org.