SMIF seeking applications for Early Literacy Grants

OWATONNA — Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), in partnership with publishing companies Capstone and ABDO, is accepting applications for its Early Literacy Grant program. This grant is designed to support early literacy efforts that enhance school readiness for children birth to age eight by providing children with books. Nonprofit organizations working with these children and their families in SMIF’s 20-county region are encouraged to apply.

In 2002, Capstone helped launch the BookStart program, working with SMIF to distribute thousands of books to children in the region over a period of 15 years. In 2018, the Early Literacy Grant was formed as a new collaborative effort between SMIF and the two Mankato-based publishing companies to put even more books into the hands of young children. “Reading books to young children is critical for their development,” said Rae Jean Hansen, SMIF’s vice president of early childhood. “We are grateful to Capstone and ABDO for their continued partnership in this program to provide parents and children in the region with the support they need for their future success.”

Applications are due to SMIF by 2 p.m. on March 15, 2022. Applications that target diverse and at-risk populations will be prioritized. For more information or to apply, visit www.smifoundation.org. For questions about what SMIF might fund contact Heidi Coulter, early childhood project manager, at (507) 214-7016 or email heidic@smifoundation.org.