Two BIG First Book events!
Hundreds of OSEA members and other volunteers turned out to help sort and distribute a total of 40,000 free, high-quality new books to Title I schools and classrooms in the Eugene and southern Oregon areas.
Hosted by Eugene Chapter 1 and Medford Chapter 15, these huge logistical events came together thanks to the help of dedicated OSEA volunteers who were generous with their time.
This endeavor was led by classified school employees in the Eugene and southern Oregon areas, who saw an opportunity to put high-quality books in the hands of children who need them most.
“All children, regardless of income level, deserve access to high-quality books that will hopefully inspire a lifetime love of reading and reinforce the importance of literacy,” Eugene Chapter 1 President Jo Ann Smith said.
“We couldn’t miss this chance to put high-quality books in the hands of children who need them most,” said Kristina Shellhorn, president of OSEA’s Medford chapter.
“Our region struggles economically, and literacy is essential to leveling the playing field for our underprivileged students. This endeavor is designed to help accomplish that,” Alma Medrano of OSEA’s Medford chapter said.
“I can’t think of a better way to give back to the community than this opportunity to instill the love of reading in a new generation,” Marisa Rowden of the OSEA Central Point chapter said.
Both areas struggle with significant poverty. More than half of Medford students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, while nearly 7,000 Eugene students meet this criteria.
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