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Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), in partnership with publishing companies Capstone and ABDO, is accepting applications for its Early Literacy Grant program. This grant is designed to support early literacy efforts that enhance school readiness for children birth to age eight by providing children with books. Nonprofit organizations working with these children and their families in SMIF’s 20 county region are encouraged to apply.

Priority in funding will be given to projects that target diverse and at-risk populations that may not be receiving books through any other avenues in the community, strengthen parental awareness of early literacy needs including communication and language development, include a parent education component, offer new and creative ways to reach diverse and at-risk families and/or collaborate with other organizations to provide literacy enhancements.

Diverse populations may include factors based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, physical disability, etc.

At-risk populations may include those receiving free/reduced lunch, ECSE, WIC, CCAP, ELL, etc.

“We are once again thrilled and grateful to partner with Capstone and ABDO to support this program,” said Rae Jean Hansen, SMIF’s vice president of Early Childhood.

“Each book donated is an opportunity to support young readers and set up our region for success.”

“Capstone’s southern Minnesota roots run deep. This community is truly something special and we’re proud to enter into our 23rd year of partnership with Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation to support children’s literacy,” said Gail Beer, Capstone vice president of customer relations and operations. “Research shows that access to books is critically important in a child’s development. SMIF is making a difference for the children in our community and Capstone remains honored to be a part of it.”

“Each year, we look forward to reaching more young readers through the Early Literacy Grant program,” said DeMar Borth, COO for ABDO. “We are heartened to know our donations are making a difference for kids across the region.”

Applications are due to SMIF by 3 p.m. March 10. Book pickup dates for awarded organizations will be held on June 11 and 12 in Owatonna. For more information or to apply, visit www.smifoundation.org. For questions about what SMIF might fund contact Heidi Coulter, Early Childhood project manager, at 507-214-7016 or heidic@smifoundation.org.