United Way of Greater Houston Hosts Black History Month Book Drive Benefiting Local Students

HOUSTON, TX -- Research shows that increasing access to books not only improves attitudes toward reading and learning but has a long-term positive impact on academic outcomes. Recognizing that lower-income children don’t have the same level of access to a variety of books compared to other households, United Way of Greater Houston is hosting a book drive for elementary students throughout the city leading up to Read Across America Day on March 2, 2023.

In support of the book drive, Regions Bank will be promoting the drive to the community and 48 Regions branches across the Greater Houston region will serve as public donation sites from now until February 24. Supporters can also purchase books through an online wish list. The book drive will culminate with a Read Across America Day celebration where United Way volunteers will distribute the books to several elementary schools in the Greater Houston area.

“We know that getting books into the hands of young children can have a profound impact on their academic trajectory, especially when books are available at an earlier age,” said Emily Faron, director, volunteer engagement, United Way of Greater Houston. “This is a great opportunity for our community to support local youth, and we are grateful to Regions Bank for lending their support and opening their doors so those interested in making a donation can easily do so.”

Recognizing the impact that can be made on adolescents by reading books featuring characters from diverse backgrounds, United Way of Greater Houston has compiled a list of books featuring diverse characters that are written and illustrated by people of color in honor of Black History Month. Donors can choose from this list of books on the online wish list, which can be found here.

“Books introduce young readers to interesting characters and transport them to faraway places that spark their imaginations and creativity,” said John Stacy, Commercial Banking leader and market executive for Regions Bank in Houston. “Our team at Regions Bank is incredibly proud to demonstrate our commitment to elevating education through this literacy collaboration with United Way of Greater Houston. We invite and encourage members of the Houston community to join us in lending their support as well.”

For more information on the book drive, visit www.unitedwayhouston.org/mlk-bookdrive or email Emily Faron, efaron@unitedwayhouston.org.

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About United Way of Greater Houston
United Way of Greater Houston connects people with possibility. We unite donors, volunteers and community partners in support of a focused plan to remove barriers on the path to financial stability for families and individuals. Programs focused on financial stability, early childhood and youth development, and physical and behavioral health care help our neighbors land on their feet and stay there. These programs are supported by a foundation of basic needs assistance and help for those escaping violence. For families and individuals who are ready, our individualized approach includes navigators to guide them as they access multiple services on their unique journey to financial stability. United Way also connects our neighbors with help, hope and critical resources 24/7/365 through the 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE. A focus on equity is integral to United Way’s work and program investments are evaluated on how diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is incorporated into policies, practices and service delivery. Our community investments are backed by research, ensured by good stewardship and deliver results. For more information, visit www.unitedwayhouston.org.

About Regions Financial Corporation
Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE:RF), with $155 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation’s largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates more than 1,250 banking offices and more than 2,000 ATMs. Regions Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Additional information about Regions and its full line of products and services can be found at www.regions.com.