Support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Help Put a Book in Every Child’s Hands, From Birth to Age Five.
Every child deserves the chance to fall in love with reading and it starts with access to books at home.
Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, children from birth to age five receive a free, high-quality book every month, mailed directly to their doorstep.
In Erie County, this program is already making a meaningful impact. More than 5,000 children in United Way of Buffalo and Erie County sponsored neighborhoods are building their own home libraries and developing the early literacy skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Just $50 provides one child with a full year of books.
Want to support this program? Connect with Rema Hanash at rema.hanash@uwbec.org or (716) 887-2614 for more information.
Why It Matters
Right now, only 32% of third graders in Buffalo Public Schools are proficient in English Language Arts well below the New York State average. In nearby Lackawanna, that number drops to just 19%.
As the signature program Women United proudly champions, this work is focused on changing those outcomes early before children fall behind.
Third grade is a critical milestone. It’s when children shift from learning to read to reading to learn. Without strong reading skills by this point, children are far more likely to fall behind academically.
Take Action Today
- Donate: to sponsor a child and give the gift of reading.
- Spread the word: to expand access to even more families.
- Join Women United: Women United is a network of women advancing United Way of Buffalo & Erie County’s mission through philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism. Together, we strengthen Buffalo & Erie County by improving the health, financial wellness, and educational outcomes of women and children.
Supported By
Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.
