The path to literacy begins with
having the right supplies.
Early learning resources are critical to ensuring children in the Greater Richmond & Petersburg region are ready for kindergarten and reading at grade-level by third grade. United Way is committed to helping young children in our region meet these crucial Steps to Success.
How It Works
Throughout the year, we collect and assemble thousands of Literacy Kits to be delivered to students in our region. Each kit includes school supplies, an age appropriate book and information for families so students can be prepared for kindergarten and reading at grade-level by third grade. These are the three major steps for creating and delivering Literacy Kits to the public:
HOLD LITERACY KIT DRIVES
Volunteers collect books and school supplies for their own drives, which are then assembled into Literacy Kits.
ASSEMBLE LITERACY KITS
United Way coordinates and facilitates groups of volunteers on-site and off-site to assemble more than 2,000 Literacy Kits.
DISTRIBUTE TO SCHOOLS
Early elementary students at schools throughout the region receive kits at various times throughout the year.
2024-2025 Timeline
All completed Kits must be dropped off at United Way.
Summer 2024
8/8/24 — Literacy Kit Kick-Off
On August 8, 8:30-9:30 a.m., we’re having a kick-off meeting. Sign up here through Eventbrite.
9/6/24 — Deadline for Educators to Request Literacy Kits
Autumn 2024
10/15/23 by 4:30 p.m. — Autumn Literacy Kit Donation Deadline
10/22/23 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. — Autumn Literacy Kit Distribution
On October 22, 12:00-2:00 p.m., we’re distributing Literacy Kits to local schools. Sign up here through Eventbrite.
Spring 2025
4/4/25 by 4:30 p.m. — Spring Literacy Kit Donation Deadline
4/10/25 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. — Spring Literacy Kit Distribution
On April 10, 12:00-2:00 p.m., we’re distributing Literacy Kits to local schools. Sign up here through Eventbrite.
Ways to Get Involved
Bring together friends, neighbors or colleagues to raise supplies and books and assemble them into Literacy Kits. Our toolkit makes it easy to plan your drive, garner support, communicate the need and increase the impact of your efforts. Find ideas and tools to help get you started.
Learn More
Any group donating 100 completed kits or $1,500 will be recognized as a Literacy Kit Leader. Learn more about being recognized as a Literacy Kit Leader.
Learn More
Contributing United Way Literacy Kits is fun, easy and can be done from home. Use our supply list to collect and assemble the necessary items.
View List
United Way Literacy Kits are a year-round effort. We are always recruiting volunteers to help with upcoming phases. Keep an eye on this page for announcements or email volunteer@yourunitedway.org to learn more.
Resources
2,366 Literacy Kits
were collected this year.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Need a little more support?
Contact us for more support on hosting your Literacy Kit drive.