Toys for Tots Combats Childhood Illiteracy with ‘March into Reading’ Initiative
March is National Reading Month, and the Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program is committed to expanding access to books and educational resources for children living in low-income communities. Their initiative, “March into Reading,” reflects the Program’s dedication to fostering literacy among underserved youth—ensuring every child has access to the tools they need to succeed regardless of their circumstances.
It is well-known that literacy is the foundation for a successful and happy life, however, many children in low-income communities lack critical access to age-appropriate books. Toys for Tots’ mission extends far beyond the holiday season, and our Literacy Program enables us to be a year-round force for good– providing disadvantaged children with direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively.
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 37% of fourth graders read below the basic reading level due to insufficient educational materials. Even more alarming, one in four children in America grow up without ever learning how to read. The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program works to combat this illiteracy crisis by distributing books and educational resources to children in underserved communities and Title I funded schools, helping them develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong love of reading.
“By getting books into the hands of struggling students, we are helping children become their best selves,” said LtGen Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Our goal is to dramatically change the landscape for economically disadvantaged children and provide the essential tools to ensure their future success.”
Since its inception in 2008, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program has distributed over 60 million books to disadvantaged children. In 2024 alone, nearly three million books were provided to children and Title I funded schools, ensuring that young learners have the tools they need to succeed.
Last year, Marine Forces Reserve, GySgt Bacchus, and author Will Baggett visited Hynes Charter School, a Title I funded school in the New Orleans metro area, to conduct a reading event promoting the Toys for Tots Literacy Program. They shared the fundamental value of literacy with first and second graders, emphasizing the importance of getting educational books and materials into the hands of all children, regardless of their circumstances.
“The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program not only brings the joy of reading to these children, but it also serves as a vital instrument in breaking the cycle of poverty by highlighting the importance of literacy,” said LtGen Laster.
The Toys for Tots Literacy Program believes that reading is a basic, essential skill that can transform lives and open doors to a more fulfilling future and has provided over 330,000 books to Title I funded schools. During National Reading Month, Toys for Tots is working to ensure every child experiences the power of literacy, and the sense of hope, optimism, and excitement that it generates.
For more information about how you can help Toys for Tots bring the power of literacy to children in need, please visit www.toysfortots.org.
