The children’s charity organization Marine Toys for Tots has launched its Turn the Page on Poverty campaign in celebration of National Reading Month. The campaign highlights the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, which aims to break the cycle of poverty by helping kids learn how to read and write. 

According to Toys for Tots, approximately 37% of American fourth graders read below their grade level. This can negatively impact a student’s ability to excel in numerous aspects of their scholastic life. It also means that more than a third of American kids are behind academically before they reach middle school, and many are from families who are unable to afford the educational resources and books needed to help their kids. 

Toys for Tots is dedicated to helping kids succeed and reach their full potential despite economic hardship. Since the launch of the Literary Program in 2008, Toys for Tots has delivered more than 57 million books to kids in poverty — including more than 4.1 million books last year alone. 

Donations to the Toys for Tots Literacy Program benefit local kids and the libraries, programs, and schools that they attend. Kids receive access to books and educational resources that can help break the cycle of poverty through the program.

“Our goal is to dramatically change the landscape for economically disadvantaged children and provide books and educational resources to ensure their future success,” says Lieutenant General James B. Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “By getting books into the hands of struggling students, we are helping them become their best selves. With the help of our generous supporters, I know we can break the cycle of illiteracy and give every child the tools needed for a bright and successful future.”

For more information concerning the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, or to donate, visit toysfortots.org.