Grand Forks Improves Local Literacy

The Grand Forks literacy task group received $60,000 from Literacy Now Communities. Funds supported seniors' computer classes; literacy for special needs adults; the Slocan Valley Community Services Literacy Program; an ESL conversation project; additional literacy resources at the Grand Forks Library; and Math Homework: A Parent's Guide.

Other programs include Alphabet Soup, for children aged 4-5 and their parents where children learn to "read" picture recipes and practice cooking; Festive Family Storytime where musicians and storytellers provide stories and songs; The Sharing Books Box of free donated books; and Writing Out Loud, a writing program that improves writing skills and aids in coping and self-discovery. Other activities offered include Family Literacy Week and Homework Club.

Literacy Now Communities guides communities through a planning process to identify and address local literacy needs. The program focuses on building partnerships, networking and sharing best practices within BC's communities and regions. There are currently 96 task groups throughout BC working to improve local literacy. Literacy Now Communities is supported by the Province of British Columbia.