WeHa Literacy Program Announces Fund-Raising Success

Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — A local fund-raising drive to purchase books for a popular literacy program enjoyed a fruitful effort, organizers said Monday.

Children’s Reading Partners, the West Hartford Rotary Club, and The Miale Team at Keller Williams said Monday the 10th annual Greater Hartford Virtual Holiday Book Drive raised $7,000.

Administered by the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford, Children’s Reading Partners serves at-risk students in the Greater Hartford area.

The program provides one-on-one mentoring services during the school year and through a summer reading league.

The funds will be used to purchase new books for elementary school students who participate in Children’s Reading Partners’ volunteer literacy programs across the region.

“We can't believe this was our 10th year holding this book drive,” said Bennett Forrest of The Miale Team, who chairs the drive. “Over the years, we have raised thousands of dollars and delivered thousands of books to students in need. The Rotary Club of West Hartford and Miale Team at Keller Williams, are proud to support the efforts of the Children’s Reading Partners each year.”

In addition to the many individuals who contributed to the book drive, members of the West Hartford Rotary Club donated $1,000 toward the goal.

“Getting books into the hands of kids can change their lives,” said West Hartford Rotary Club President Rick Liftig. “The Rotary Club is very proud to be able to help in this effort."

“Many of the children in our programs do not own a book of their own or have books available in their homes,” added Children’s Reading Partners Program Director Ronni Breiter. “Having a book selected just for them builds motivation and instills reading confidence. Our children's faces light up when they receive their personal gift."

To learn more about Children’s Reading Partners, visit this link.