MENDOTA – So what’s the story? The bad news is our nation is in a literacy crisis. 100 percent of kindergarteners report wanting to read for fun. By 4th grade that percentage drops to 54 percent. And by high school that number is at a staggering 19 percent. The good news is there are simple things we can do to help.

Book ownership matters. A 20-year global study revealed that children who had 500 plus books in their home completed an average 3.2 more years of education and made on average an extra $21,145 more per year.

“In partnership with the Graves-Humes Public library, it is my hope to promote literacy and inspire a love of reading at a young age in our youth. I do not want to see our children fall to these statistics,” said Jennifer Bast.

Blast is hosting a fundraiser to give new books to area children.

“Please join me and the Graves-Humes Public Library in supporting the families of Mendota at the Mendota Area Chamber of Commerce’s event, “Mendota Christmas.” It is our hope that each child attending this event will go home with a free book! Each $25 donation will provide 2-3 children with a new book. It is a simple way to give back to these little ones and ensure they have a new book in time for the holidays.” she added.

With a goal to raise $3,300, combined with 50 percent donation matching from Usborne Books & More, participants will be able to provide the city of Mendota with almost $5,000 in books for the children.

Donations can be made online at https://www.gofundme.com/books-for-mendota or in person at the Graves-Humes Public Library.