Hundreds of free books given out at reading festival

More than 800 books were handed out at the Delta Sigma Theta sorority’s annual children’s reading festival.

The event was held at Victoria Park last Saturday with readings, crafts, games and a special visit from Santa.  Each child who attended received a free book along with the complimentary activities and refreshments.

The festival is the Delta’s signature event. Nina Jacobs, chair of the event said: “The objective of this event is to encourage literacy and foster a love of reading in every child from a very young age, primarily because literacy is the cornerstone of a solid education. The good habits we form in our formative years can last a lifetime.”

At the festival, children and parents enjoyed literary activities such as story time, the More Pink craft centre, educational games centre, fun castles, book signings from local authors, free refreshments of popcorn and juice and a special visit from Santa.

Margaret Fergusson, wife of Governor George Fergusson, and local author Nadia Aguiar read books to the kids.

Roxanne Christopher, chapter president, said: “In today’s video game and television society, it is critical that we remind children and parents that reading is vital to the future success of our community and economy.

“The CRF continues to prepare and motivate children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to children and families in Bermuda.”

“We’d like to especially thank our sponsors, More Pink, KPMG, Funtyme Entertainment, Spa Water, Prophecy Hi Power, Bulls Head Car Wash, Brown & Co, Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and The Royal Gazette. Obtaining the funding to support this event proved to be most challenging this year and we are elated that our community service event continued.”

For more information on the Children’s Reading Festival and how to offer financial support or donate books, please contact the Bermuda Alumnae Chapter at [email protected].