It's hard to resist a politician on a paper route - especially when every penny of proceeds goes toward local literacy programs. On Friday (Jan. 25), community members dug deep in to support Squamish Reads. The event had celebrity carriers taking to the streets to sell The Chief with all monies accumulated going to local programs.
While residents may not be accustomed to hearing "Extra! Extra!" shouted from the streets, carriers such as Coun. Raj Kahlon, Capilano College president Dr. Greg Lee and West Vancouver-Garibaldi MLA Joan McIntyre were met with a warm response."We had more than a dozen people hand us $20 bills and not ask for change," said Chief publisher Tim Shoults.
"It was absolutely amazing. We even had one person give us $20US, which isn't quite as exciting as it used to be, but still great."When the day was done, the event had raised just under $2,400.The money raised will be matched by the provincial government, bumping the tally up to $4,800. It will be put toward literacy programs administered by Capilano College and the Squamish Public Library.
Head librarian Maureen Painter said the funding could be a lifesaver for the South Asian Senior Women's group, which has yet to receive funding for the 2008/2009 period.Once a week, senior women meet at Valleycliffe Public School to learn literacy skills while socializing with one another."It's quite an important program," said Painter. "With seniors in Squamish, about 33 per cent speak only Punjabi."Last year, about 300 people took part in the group sessions. The funding may also go to enhance baby programs with ever-increasing enrollment, or the summer reading program for young students.
Any investment in literacy is worthwhile, noted Painter."It really just gives back to so much to the community when people can improve their literacy both economically and just the feeling of self-worth. It's really priceless."
She thanked everyone who supported the initiative by picking up or selling copies of The Chief."We had no idea it would be so much," she gushed.
