United Way raises awareness about lack of literacy among young Rockford students

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — United Way had multiple speakers who raised awareness and told Rockford’s community what they can do to support literacy for young students on Thursday.

The organization claimed that 66% of public school students in Winnebago County are not reading at grade level by third grade.

Students who struggle to read are more likely to face economic hardships as adults, according to the United Way.

United Way is funding 18 community partners to help children succeed from a young age.

“We got here together as a community, and we’re only gonna get out of it as a community,” said United Way of Rock River Valley President Julie Bosma. “So, our focus is on those children from birth to five, because we know if they’ve got the right skills to read, when they hit those kindergarten doors, then the schools will take them, they’ll help them to read. So, we’re really focusing on the littles, so that when they do get to kindergarten, they are ready to read and ready to succeed.”

The event featured book signings, local artists, a silent auction and a raffle for literacy initiatives.