Children in the region are attending family reading events and receiving free books thanks to a new program.
WSIU, in partnership with Molina Healthcare and the Carbondale Public Library, hosted a family reading night on March 7. Children and their parents enjoyed a fun show from Chef Bananas, picked out a book to take home, and received health items. The event was enjoyed by approximately 25 parents and kids.
Quincy author and her therapy dog entertained and read RIPLEY GOES TO SCHOOL to over 30 youngsters during PBS KIDS Reading with Molina at The Quincy Public Library on March 18. Thank you Ms. Natascha (Library), Erin Stafford (Molina Healthcare), Tracy Schlepphorst (Emotion Belly Books), and Jeri Waldeck (WSIU) for making sure everyone left with free books, artwork and a kiss from Ripley!
The MolinaCares in Illinois newsletter recently featured this information about the partnership:
While proficiency in language arts for Illinois students improved to 35%, proficiency remains below pre-pandemic levels. To help address this problem, Molina Healthcare of Illinois recently launched the ‘Reading with Molina’ event series with the goal of instilling a love of reading in Illinois' youth.
Learn more about the value of reading for children with this resource from PBS:
PBS KIDS Read! | PBS KIDS for Parents
