New local data is available demonstrating the impact of Reach Out and Read for children and families. Pediatricians advise parents about the importance of reading with young children for brain development and learning, providing books for families to take home.

They write a “prescription” for reading at home to serve as a catalyst for time spend together in this family activity. In Manatee County, Reach Out and Read has led to positive changes in family practices around reading from its inception in 2017. According to new local data collected, participating families are 11 times more likely to read together every day.
The national program is being supported locally by The Patterson Foundation with funding for books made possible through the Reach Out and Read Fund of Manatee Community Foundation.

To learn more about local work supporting grade-level reading, contact Joan McCaw at Joan@ManateeCF.org, Manager of Grants and Scholarships.