In Spring 2024, the Christ Child Omaha Literacy Committee redefined our pilot literacy program for families in our community. Committee members Ann Marie Abboud, Beth Wilson, Denise Snodgrass, and Jillian Krumbach developed a plan to partner with existing literacy organizations and roll out literacy programming through our current network of agency relationships.
In what can now only be described as a God moment, Jillian stumbled upon small, printed books from an organization called Unite for Literacy at her twin sons’ preschool. The website, which is free and available to anyone, showcases hundreds of books narrated in over 50 languages. With support from the Christ Child Board of Directors, the dream is becoming a reality.
Christ Child is now adding three Unite for Literacy “birth to 3” books to each layette, along with a tip card discussing the importance of reading to children starting at birth. The printed books also have a QR code on the back, which leads families to the online library and provides access to hundreds of books narrated in 50+ languages.
Attractive tree-shaped book stands, with free books in English and Spanish, have been placed at One World WIC Clinic, Refugee Women Rising, Catholic Charities Food Pantry, and Guiding Grace. The welcoming shelves house books for children and families to take, read, and keep. Access to books at home for preschoolers improves language skills and school readiness, leading to long-term academic success.
