American Heritage Credit Union has donated more than 4,300 new books to hospitals, community centers and special-care facilities throughout the Philadelphia region during its 14th annual Books for Kids program. The program collected more than $11,950 in donations from members throughout the summer and fall to purchase and distribute the books. Since inception, the program has donated more than 65,300 books and raised some $152,000.
American Heritage invited members to support its Books for Kids program by becoming “Book Buddies” and donating $3 to purchase a new book to be donated to local hospitals and organizations in American Heritage’s field of membership. When a member purchases a book donation, a label is included with the donor’s name and affixed inside the book.
Eighteen local charities and organizations received book donations, including CORA Services and Special People In Northeast Inc.
American Heritage also made a special book donation to the “Reach Out and Read” program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which promotes early literacy and school readiness in pediatrics by giving books to children and educating their parents on the importance of reading.
“With growing challenges children and schools continue to face year after year, our book donations are needed now more than ever,” said Bruce K. Foulke, president and CEO of American Heritage. “Children deserve educational enrichment and as many opportunities to advance literacy as possible. I am so appreciative of American Heritage’s Board of Directors, our associates and our valued members who have contributed to this annual program and are helping to advance this cause.”
