about the program

The Literacy Lunches 10-week series of drop-in literacy programs for Haverhill families took place every Friday at noon at Consentino School, Hunking School, and the Haverhill YMCA during summer 2021. Families were encouraged to enjoy a free lunch provided by Haverhill Public Schools Food Services and participate in a fun 1-hour literacy program presented by community partners. Each Literacy Lunch program featured a read-aloud of a children’s book (in both English and Spanish whenever possible) followed by an interactive craft project, movement game, or other coordinating activity. Every family that attended received a free copy of the book that was read that day to add to their home libraries.

Around 250 children and their parents/grandparents took part in the inaugural Literacy Lunches series, attending one or more events over the course of the 10 weeks. 350 brand new children's books were handed out, including 40 bi-lingual and Spanish books.

Our partners

Literacy Lunches would not have been possible without the enthusiastic community partner and volunteers who helped organize and facilitate each event. Please click through the links below to learn more about the great programs and resources they provide.

• Creative Haverhill supports Haverhill arts and culture by providing experiences and access at the intersection of art, culture, and community, and by developing high-quality spaces as platforms for community and cultural expression.

• Family & Community Connection offers free programs, playgroups and activities for families with children birth–8 years old. CAI-FCC serves the following cities and towns in Massachusetts: Amesbury, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Merrimac and West Newbury.

• Haverhill Public Library's children's room has materials for all children up to grade six. We offer a summer learning program and a variety of fun, interactive programs every week.

• Haverhill Public Schools provides free full day kindergarten for Haverhill residents. HPS also has an integrated preschool program at Moody Preschool. Classrooms include children with special needs as well as students who are typically developing.

• kidSHINE occupational therapists are skilled at supporting each child's unique learning style and recognizing how to empower each child to achieve motor milestones and functional independence.

• King’s Day Out: Empowering children as they navigate life's adventures through books, activities and resources.

• Maggie Van Galen is a local award winning children's author, storyteller and writer.

• With care and compassion, Ruth’s House, Inc. provides clothing and employment training opportunities to individuals and families in need throughout the Greater Merrimack Valley. Children 12 and under can join our Reading Club! When you have finished reading five (5) books, return the Club Members card completed with your name, the book titles and authors, and you will receive a $5 gift certificate to use in the store that same day! One gift certificate per month per child.

• The Haverhill YMCA is a non-profit dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility in the greater Haverhill community. We are focused on supporting the educational needs of all; especially to nurture and care for young children.

Funding

Funding for Literacy Lunches came from the DESE Pre-K-3 Remote Learning Partnership Grant facilitated by Haverhill Public Schools.