Beyond Words Grant Program Funds Help School Libraries Rebuild After Natural Disasters
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The Dollar General Literacy Foundation recently announced two additional Beyond Words grants totaling $25,000 to schools in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Houma, Louisiana following the impact of disasters.
“The Dollar General Literacy Foundation is committed to ensuring educational continuity following the devastating aftermath of a disaster in our hometown communities,” said Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. “Through our Beyond Words grant program, we are proud to support these schools’ library recovery efforts and literacy initiatives.”
East Brainerd Elementary School in Chattanooga, Tennessee received a $15,000 grant after spring 2020 tornadoes impacted the school’s library. The school was closed for nine months following the storm.
“East Brainerd Elementary is honored and truly grateful to receive the Beyond Words Grant from Dollar General,” shared Dr. Saunya Goss, East Brainerd Elementary School Principal. “This award will allow us to enhance our library and media center to better serve our students.”
Additionally, Grand Caillou Elementary School in Houma, Louisiana received a $10,000 grant after Hurricane Ida in 2021. Due to severe damage to the school, Grand Caillou Elementary temporarily relocated to surrounding Terrebonne Parish schools during the building repair process.
“After losing our entire library collection and school to Hurricane Ida, our hearts were broken and our community struggling to make ends meet. Being awarded this grant and the ability to replace books lost brought back smiles to our students faces knowing they could check out books again and a library that was somewhat back to normal when their home lives were in disarray,” said Amanda Callahan, Grand Caillou Elementary School Principal. “The books purchased with this grant not only will help build literacy for years to come, it increased the moral of our students and school. Thank you Dollar General!”
Since its inception in 2006, Beyond Words has awarded more than $2.8 million in grants, impacting more than 117,000 students in 31 states. Grants are available to public schools with a school library located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store or distribution center. Learn more about Beyond Words on the Dollar General newsroom and other literacy grants at dgliteracy.org.