Reading is Fundamental
In July 2007, PBS 39 became the administrator of the Reading is Fundamental (RIF) Program for the Allentown School District. PBS 39 took on this project at the request of the previous community administrator, the Allentown Jaycees organization.
The RIF program prepares and motivates children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to those children and family who need them most. All RIF programs combine three essential elements to foster children’s literacy: reading motivation, family and community involvement, and the excitement of choosing free books to keep.
The PBS 39 RIF program serves nearly 8,000 children at 23 sites throughout the city of Allentown, including at elementary schools like Central, Cleveland, Dodd, Jackson, Jefferson, Lehigh Parkway, McKinley, Mosser, Muhlenberg, Ritter, Roosevelt, Sheridan, Union Terrace, and Washington.
Low income families represent a large portion of the population served by this program; approximately 74% of this population is considered to be “at-risk” by RIF Program standards. Through funds provided by the National RIF program and funds solicited by and donated through PBS 39, approximately 23,000 free books are distributed to children in Allentown annually.
Best Wishes and Happy Reading!