Donation gives students ability to buy books
POMPANO BEACH, Fla. (WSVN) — Thousands of South Florida students received certificates to buy books thanks to a generous donation.
The “Read and Rise” program came to Park Ridge Elementary in Pompano Beach, Monday, along with a $2,155 check from 1-800-411-PAIN.
The money donated to the school helps make sure every student could buy a book from the book fair. “On ClearChannel radio stations we want pro-literacy campaigns. Scholastic America provides the book fairs at the Title I school and 411-PAIN provides the funding necessary for the kids to get the books,” said Lonny Anger of ClearChannel Radio.
The students at Park Ridge Elementary were thrilled to receive the ability to get their very own book. “I do like TV, but I like reading more,” said one student.
When another student was asked why she liked reading she said, “Because it’s so good. You can learn different kinds of words.”
Faculty at Park Ridge Elementary were also thankful for the funds donated to their students. “It’s fantastic, and with the economy the way it is today, it’s very difficult finding business partners as committed as 411 is to providing our students with the materials needed for proper education,” said Park Ridge Principal Michael Walker.
The program also went to Olinda Elementary in Miami on Monday, with a check for $2,040, providing the students with the means to buy books.
One student understands that reading also has a practical side. “At Burger King you look at the menu, but you might not know what it says, and you might get the wrong thing,” he said.
ClearChannel Radio and 411-PAIN has now provided $125,000 in the last two years to the “Read and Rise” program.
(Copyright 2011 by Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
