Brightening children's lives with books

Sharon West

Date published: 1/14/2007

Dedicated to the belief that instilling an early love of read- ing is key to the future success of all children, particularly those underprivileged youngsters served by The Salvation Army's Toyland, The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary launched "Book Buddies," a program to obtain new books for them.

A variety of generous-hearted sources--civic associations, schools, churches, and numerous individuals--donate books and money each year.

This year's response was wonderful. We were able to reach our goal of giving new books to more than a thousand youths.

Grateful thanks go to Dr. LeRoy Essig of Medical Specialists of Virginia for his unfailing support, and to Clearview Heights Civic Association, Mansfield Club Book Group, Fredericksburg United Methodist Church, The Lord's Church, Saving Graces Church, Rotoract and Interact Clubs, Dixon-Smith Middle School, James Monroe High School's marketing education department, and Central Rappahannock Regional Library.

Chelsea Cayer, a bright and enthusiastic high school student, composed and distributed fliers to many local businesses, then collected their contributions. She's an inspiration.

Endless thanks go to all of the sponsors and coordinators, to those who gave books, and to those who stopped by with books.

They've brightened the lives of our children with the gift of reading this holiday. A most blessed new year to all.

Spotsylvania

Sharon West is the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary's Book Buddies chairman.

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Date published: 1/14/2007