First Book UGA seeks to fill the literacy gap in Athens-Clarke County by providing free books to underprivileged children. In the past year, we have given away over 1,100 books - 2 books to every child at a local Title 1 elementary school. Every $2.50 that we raise equals a brand new book for a child in need. This year we are hosting a benefit dinner, canning, selling lollipops before home footbal
l games, and more to impact children in Athens. At the end of the school year we visit elementary schools and give the books to the children. Take a look at the facts:
- In middle income neighborhoods, the ratio of books per child is 13 to one; in low-income neighborhoods, that ratio is 1 age-appropriate book for every 300 children.
- 80% of preschool and after school programs serving low-income populations have no age-appropriate books.
- Among adults at the lowest level of literacy proficiency, 43% live in poverty; among adults with strong literacy skills, only 4% live in poverty.
- Athens-Clarke County is the 5th poorest county in the nation. First Book UGA is the campus branch of a national organization called First Book. Since 1992, First Book has donated over 100 million books to disadvantaged children in the U.S.
