The Lakeshore Community Action Program based in Manitowoc, Wisconsin is a nonprofit organization that works through programs on housing, parenting, skill enhancement and more to increase economic self-sufficiency in various Washington counties. Colleen from the Lakeshore CAP wrote to Bulk Bookstore about their passion for children’s literacy and how books, like Chris Van Allsburg’s The Polar Express, can be beacons of hope for so many families.     

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A Brighter Future

Each year during the holiday season, families from various Lakeshore CAP programs are invited to a special event, where copies of Chris Van Allsburg’s The Polar Express are handed out to all.

“We strongly believe in the ability of literacy to change a child's future, and placing books into the hands of these families is one way to encourage reading together,” writes Colleen.

But getting books into the hands of these children isn’t just a goal for the winter months -- it’s a full time mission. Colleen says that the Lakeshore CAP “also distributes books to families that attend our Group Connections events, and to families in our Home Visiting program that turn in a monthly reading log.”

So, not only does their agency ensure that kids are given books of their own, they keep track of how often they are reading them with monthly reports from families. 

What a wonderful way to promote literacy!

The Magic of Books

Colleen told our team just how much of an impact these books have on the children and families the Lakeshore CAP works with. “One family even shared that they recently created a "reading nook" in the children's play area because they are always picking up books and looking through them!” she explains.

“It is success stories like this that strengthen our commitment to continue to place new books into the hands of these children and their families. Because every child should have a book to call their very own.”

Colleen hit the nail right on the head on the importance of children’s literacy. In fact, studies have shown that children who read at home have a higher success rate in school. The National Education Association states, “having kids read a lot is one of the crucial components of becoming a good reader. Young readers need to become practiced at recognizing letters and sounds. The only way to get good at it is to practice.”

That is exactly what the Lakeshore CAP hopes children will do with the books they give out -- practice! Whether by themselves or with a parent or teacher, children are reading! That makes all the difference in the world.

Why Bulk Bookstore?

We at Bulk Bookstore are passionate advocates for children’s literacy and agree wholeheartedly with Colleen and the Lakeshore CAP -- the more kids and families that have access to books, the better. Buying books in bulk ensures that every child within your school, school district, non-profit organization or business receives a book to call their own.

Do you work in a classroom, school, or children’s organization? Bulk Bookstore is the ultimate one-stop-shop for everything from educational books to adventure stories, classic novels and reading list must-haves.

Unsure of what books you’d like to order? Check out our Staff Picks for Schools here!