Metro East Literacy Project Receives Grant Awards to Advance Literacy Initiatives

O'FALLON, Ill. - Dec. 15, 2023 - PRLog -- O'Fallon, Illinois- The Metro East Literacy Project (MELP) is proud to announce that it has received multiple grant awards supporting its mission to promote literacy among adults and children. These grants will enable MELP to expand its programs and reach a wider audience, impacting the community's literacy landscape. With the support of its partners and stakeholders, MELP is committed to addressing the literacy crisis in the region. The organization is grateful for these generous contributions and looks forward to leveraging them to develop innovative initiatives that foster a love for reading and improve literacy outcomes.

"We are immensely grateful to all of our grantors and other valued supporters for their commitment to improving literacy in our community," said Linda M. Mitchell, Executive Director of Metro East Literacy Project. "These grants will enable us to reach more individuals in need and provide them with the resources and support necessary to develop a lifelong love for reading."

Grants and Recognition
The grants awarded to MELP include:

• Ameren Illinois: A $3,000 grant will contribute to MELP's mission of promoting literacy by expanding access to books and developing a much-needed tutoring initiative.
• Books for STL Kids and the St. Louis Community Foundation's Donor Advised Funds: A combined total of $1,000 from these grantors will enable MELP to purchase new books for its Books Under the Christmas Tree campaign, directly impacting the community's literacy landscape.
• Illinois Humanities: A $10,000 grant will support MELP's efforts to expand its literacy programs and reach a wider audience.
• Incarnate Word Foundation: A $5,000 grant will empower MELP to enhance its literacy resources and expand access to books, libraries, and reading lessons for underserved communities.
• Nora Roberts Foundation: A $3,000 grant will support MELP's mission to expand access to books in targeted communities and develop its Page and Turner kangaroo mascot.
• The Saigh Foundation: A $5,000 grant will help MELP improve literacy outcomes by expanding access to books, libraries, and reading lessons in underserved communities.
• Walmart Local Community Grants: MELP is thrilled to receive $2,000 from local stores. Walmart's dedication to giving back to its communities will empower MELP to give a bag of 25 books to more families in underserved communities.

With these grants, MELP will continue to create innovative and engaging literacy initiatives that foster a love for reading and improve literacy outcomes for all.
In addition to the grant awards, MELP has gained significant recognition through the mini-documentary "The Book Lady" produced by Notable Human Films. Inspired by her grandmother's inability to read, Linda's deep dedication to family literacy shines through in the documentary, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Visit https://www.metroeastliteracyproject.org/ to learn more.