United Way Literacy Kits

The path to literacy begins with 
having the right supplies.

Early learning resources are critical to ensuring children in our region are ready for kindergarten and reading at grade-level by third grade.

How It Works

Throughout the year, we collect and assemble thousands of Literacy Kits to be delivered to students in our region. Each kit includes school supplies, an age appropriate book and information for families so students can be prepared for kindergarten and reading at grade-level by third grade. These are the three major steps for creating and delivering Literacy Kits to the public:

HOLD LITERACY KIT DRIVES

Volunteers collect books and school supplies for their own drives, which are then assembled into Literacy Kits.

ASSEMBLE LITERACY KITS

United Way coordinates and facilitates groups of volunteers on-site and off-site to assemble more than 2,000 Literacy Kits.

DISTRIBUTE TO SCHOOLS

Early elementary students at schools throughout the region receive kits at various times throughout the year.

Current Timeline

All completed Kits must be dropped off at the United Way office.

Spring 2025

4/4/25 by 4:30 p.m. — Spring Literacy Kit Donation Deadline

4/10/25 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. — Spring Literacy Kit Distribution

On April 10, 12:00-2:00 p.m., we’re distributing Literacy Kits to local schools. Email volunteer@yourunitedway.org to learn more.

Ways to Get Involved

Host a Literacy Kit Drive

Bring together friends, neighbors or colleagues to raise supplies and books and assemble them into Literacy Kits. Our toolkit makes it easy to plan your drive, garner support, communicate the need and increase the impact of your efforts. Find ideas and tools to help get you started.

Learn More

Become a Literacy Kit Leader

Any group donating 100 completed kits or $1,500 will be recognized as a Literacy Kit Leader. Learn more about being recognized as a Literacy Kit Leader.

Learn More

Donate Completed Kits

Contributing United Way Literacy Kits is fun, easy and can be done from home. Use our supply list to collect and assemble the necessary items.

View List

Volunteer

United Way Literacy Kits are a year-round effort. We are always recruiting volunteers to help with upcoming phases. Keep an eye on this page for announcements or email volunteer@yourunitedway.org to learn more.