Jets Cornerback Helps Launch New ‘Reading Space’ In Newark

NEWARK, NJ — A new “reading space” in Newark recently got a kickoff with a special appearance from New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed.

The Boys & Girls Club of Newark unveiled the new space at 1 Avon Avenue earlier this month, which was funded through a donation from UnitedHealthcare of New Jersey.

The new space provides a safe zone for children to “read, learn and imagine.” Amenities include comfy seating and fully stocked bookshelves – a must for any voracious young reader.

In partnership with Reed, UnitedHealthcare also donated school supplies to families and children for back-to-school season. Reed joined UnitedHealthcare volunteers and executives at the unveiling event to pass out free backpacks and other supplies – with the NFL star personally donating “health journals” for the kids to support their emotional well-being.

“We are proud to partner with the Boys and Girls Club of Newark and support the health and wellness of our communities, especially our young people,” said Paul Marden, CEO of UnitedHealthcare of NJ.

“This initiative is extremely important to us because we know how beneficial reading can be not only to a child’s education and development, but also to their emotional health,” Marden added.

• See Related: ‘Reading Under The Stars’ Sparks Joy For Books In Newark
• See Related: Newark Reading List: 30 Books For Boys, Young Men Of Color

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