Gift of Reading

Through MIDFLORIDA's Gift of Reading program, thousands of Kindergarten students throughout our service area receive a new book to help them develop a love of reading. In 2024, as many as 29,000 copies of the book Monsters Love Cupcakes written by Mike Austin were delivered to schools to be handed out to every Kindergarten student and teacher, as well as the media center. Students also received fun Cashcow bookmarks, featuring Penny and Buck, with details on how they can open a youth savings account.

MIDFLORIDA first launched the program in 2006, and the benefits have extended far beyond the classrooms where the books are initially given. Guest readers and teachers alike have enjoyed seeing the excitement on the faces of students when MIDFLORIDA brings books to the classroom. With the goal of encouraging students to enjoy reading, it's a wonderful opportunity for MIDFLORIDA to give back to our community.