WATERVILLE – The Molina Foundation brought its Books Across Maine initiative to the area in August, providing the Kennebec Valley Community Action Partnership with more than 500 books to distribute to children served by the organization.
Reading with children has a myriad of benefits. Numerous studies have shown that students who are exposed to reading during the early years are more likely to do well in school, said a news release from the foundation. It is a bonding activity shared between adults and children, a time to relax and unwind together. And reading with children helps them to build speech skills and improve their ability to communicate. Over time, it can help children develop longer attention spans and better memory retention. And most of all, sharing books with children teaches them that reading is fun!
“We are delighted to partner with The Molina Foundation on their Books Across Maine initiative,” said Suzanne Walsh, KVCAP’s chief executive officer. “Books are a vital tool for both learning and pleasure. This wonderful community endeavor helps families build their home libraries.”
One of the organizations to receive books was Educare Central Maine, a partnership between KVCAP, Waterville Public Schools, the Bill and Joan Alfond Foundation, and the Buffett Early Childhood Fund, which serves children aged from 6 weeks old to 5 years old.
PHOTO CAPTION: Children at Educare Central Maine take a look at their new books, donated to the school as part of the Molina Foundation Books Across Maine initiative. (Submitted photo)