The UPS Store Brings Dreams to Life through Literacy

Annual literacy program to raise funds to provide books to children


SAN DIEGO, Nov. 01, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- One book can have the power to open a world of discovery and imagination. The ability to read expands a child’s understanding of the world while developing language and listening skills. In support of the education and magic provided by books, The UPS Store is kicking off its annual fundraising campaign benefiting the Toys for Tots® Literacy Program at locations nationwide and will conclude the fundraising effort on Jan. 1 with a float in the 129th Tournament of Roses Parade®.

The literacy program, created by The UPS Store and the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation in 2008, uses 100 percent of each dollar donated at The UPS Store® locations to purchase books for less fortunate children in local communities across the United States. According to the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report™: 6th Edition, lower income families have one-third of the amount of children’s books in the home compared to higher income families.

Since the program launched, UPS® and The UPS Store network have raised more than $4 million dollars to purchase books for children in need. As a result, the literacy program has distributed more than 39.4 million books to children across the United States.

“There is no better investment than education and literacy for this nation’s future,” said Tim Davis, president of The UPS Store. “We are proud to be able to give back to our communities through this program. Every child should have access to the opportunity and wonder of reading, no matter their situation or circumstance.”

As in previous years, each locally owned and operated store is pivotal to the success of this nationwide fundraising effort.  As well as providing the option to add a donation to the total purchase at check-out, The UPS Store also accepts online donations.

“Access to books for increased literacy is a mission anyone and everyone can feel part of,” said General Pete Osman, president and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Our continued partnership with The UPS Store enables thousands of communities to rally behind our cause, making this initiative even more effective. We all have a favorite book that opened us up to the world of reading. Whether it is sharing that favorite book or donating a few dollars, we encourage everyone to help children cultivate their love for learning through reading.”

Fundraising is only one part of this initiative. The UPS Store aims to delight children of all ages by highlighting the magic of reading and its power to awaken our imaginations on a national stage. For the second year, The UPS Store will participate in the Rose Parade® on Jan. 1 with a float highlighting the Toys for Tots Literacy Program. This year’s float theme is “Books Bring Dreams to Life”. The Rose Parade is broadcast live in the U.S. by several networks. Please refer to the list of broadcasters or check local listings. 

To find The UPS Store location nearest you or to make a contribution to support literacy, visit https://www.theupsstore.com/literacy.

About the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit organization authorized by the U.S. Marine Corps to provide fundraising and other necessary support for the annual U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Now in its 70th year, Toys for Tots provides joy and a message of hope to less fortunate children through the gift of a new toy or book during the Christmas holiday season. For more information, visit www.toysfortots.org.

About The UPS Store

With approximately 5,000 locations across North America, The UPS Store network comprises the nation’s largest franchise system of retail shipping, postal, print and business service centers. The UPS Store locations in the U.S. are independently owned and operated by licensed franchisees of The UPS Store, Inc., a subsidiary of UPS (NYSE: UPS). Services, products, pricing and hours of operation may vary by location. For additional information on The UPS Store, visit theupsstore.com. For information on franchise opportunities for opening a The UPS Store location, visit https://www.theupsstorefranchise.com/. Follow The UPS Store on Twitter at @TheUPSStore and like The UPS Store on Facebook at facebook.com/theupsstore.

About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses®

The Tournament of Roses is a volunteer organization that hosts America’s New Year Celebration® with the Rose Parade® presented by Honda, the Rose Bowl Game® presented by Northwestern Mutual and a variety of accompanying events. 935 volunteer members of the association will drive the success of 129th Rose Parade themed “Making A Difference,” on Monday, January 1, 2018, followed by the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the 104th Rose Bowl Game. For more information, visit www.tournamentofroses.com. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube and visit our blog at blog.tournamentofroses.com.


            

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