The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program’s Operation Turn the Page initiative is continuing through September, placing books in the hands of children in low-income communities nationwide. The effort, supported by Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education, and media company, aims to provide books to children who may otherwise have few or none of their own. For these children, a single book can spark a love of reading, build confidence, and open doors to opportunities beyond the classroom.
Scholastic has been a partner of the Toys for Tots Literacy Program since 1998, helping provide books to millions of students, teachers, and families. One of the most significant impacts of this partnership is in Title I funded schools. Through collaborative efforts, 146 Title I schools have received book donations so far in 2026, resulting in the distribution of 79,070 books to students and classrooms. These books offer opportunities to explore new worlds, strengthen reading skills, and develop a love of learning that can shape educational trajectories and future success.
The partnership has also enabled support for the Kids In Need Foundation. This year, the effort has assisted 3,800 teachers in Portland, Oregon; Dayton, Ohio; Charlotte, North Carolina; Wichita, Kansas; and Little Canada, Minnesota. By providing 4,021 educational resources, including 2,100 books and 1,921 teacher supplies, the organizations are helping educators create engaging learning environments. These resources allow teachers to focus on inspiring a love of reading and helping every child reach their potential.
Additionally, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program and Scholastic have supported projects tailored to unique community needs. At Atlantic Coast High School in Jacksonville, Florida, 250 books were provided to students, expanding access to educational resources and supporting academic achievement. In Tucson, Arizona, 210 books were distributed through a partnership with the Tucson Police Department, demonstrating how literacy can strengthen community connections and bring people together around a shared commitment to helping children succeed.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to discover the power of a book, and our partnership with Scholastic is helping make that possible for thousands of children across the Nation,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, U.S. Marines (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “When a child turns the page of a book, they also turn the page toward new possibilities in life.”
The continued success of these initiatives highlights what can be achieved when organizations unite around a common purpose. Together, they are helping disadvantaged children across America Turn the Page Toward Opportunity, one book, one child, and one future at a time. To learn more about the Toys for Tots Literacy Program or to donate, visit https://www.toysfortots.org/programs/literacy-program.
