A charity has announced its plans to donate books to children and families visiting Hamilton District and Motherwell foodbanks this winter. The Scottish Book Trust has received numerous requests from food banks and local authorities across Scotland to support vulnerable children and families facing difficult circumstances. The charity’s Christmas Appeal 2024 will feature Eric Carle’s beloved children’s book character, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, with permission from Penguin Random House LLC and The World of Eric Carle.
Marc Lambert, CEO of the Scottish Book Trust, highlighted the significance of books in children’s lives and the importance of ensuring every child has access to them. The appeal aims to provide comfort, escapism, and togetherness for families in need. Mary Mekarnom, Senior Director of Creative & Strategy at World of Eric Carle Penguin Random House, expressed their happiness in supporting the charity’s Christmas Appeal and emphasized the individual needs of each child when it comes to learning and responding to books.
Over the past three years, the charity has distributed over 290,000 books to children in need through food banks, community hubs, and other charities. Funds raised from the appeal will enable the Scottish Book Trust to continue its essential work, such as providing books to families in need and supporting various programs like Bookbug for the Home and initiatives for children with additional support needs and dementia.
To learn more about the Scottish Book Trust’s Christmas appeal and to donate, visit their website at scottishbooktrust.com/donate.
In conclusion, the Scottish Book Trust’s initiative to gift books to children and families visiting foodbanks is a heartwarming gesture that aims to bring joy and comfort to those facing challenging times during the festive season. By providing access to books and promoting literacy, the charity is making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children and families across Scotland. Such initiatives not only offer entertainment and escapism but also hold the power to inspire, educate, and unite communities in times of need.