THE GORGE — Four Rivers Early Learning Hub, in partnership with Books for Kids Columbia Gorge, has allocated $7,000 in early literacy grant funding to local programs serving young children. This initiative supports early childhood education by providing nearly 1,600 books to more than 650 children from birth to age 5 across Hood River and Wasco counties, according to a Four Rivers Family news release.
These funds were provided by the Department of Early Learning and Care and the Birth to Five Early Literacy Program.
Through this partnership, the following programs received book grants: Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC) Hood River and The Dalles; Mid-Columbia Children’s Council; The Next Door Inc., Family Services Home Visiting; Kiddie City (Parkdale and Cascade Locks); Nana’s Daycare; Yoyo’s Daycare; and Native American/Migrant Education Columbia Gorge Educational Services District.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering early literacy and ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality books,” said Four Rivers Early Learning Hub Director Shira Skybinskyy.
“Books for Kids and Four Rivers Family recognize the vital role of early exposure to books in developing strong reading skills and lifelong learning habits,” said the press release. “By working together with local organizations, they aim to bridge literacy gaps and provide educational opportunities for children in our communities.”
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