The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program’s Operation Turn the Page initiative continues throughout September, placing books in the hands of children in low-income communities nationwide. The program, driven by the belief that every child deserves the chance to learn and dream, highlights the profound impact of providing books to children who might otherwise have none. For these children, a single book can ignite a love of reading, build confidence, and unlock opportunities beyond the classroom.
Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education, and media company, has been a key partner since 1998, helping to distribute books to millions of students, teachers, and families. Together, the organizations are not just giving children stories; they are opening doors to imagination and building the skills that can shape future success.
One of the most significant outcomes of this partnership is its support for Title I funded schools. Through collaborative efforts in 2026, 146 Title I schools have received book donations, resulting in 79,070 books distributed to students and classrooms. For many children, these books are more than just pages—they are tools to explore new worlds, strengthen reading skills, and develop a lifelong love of learning that can alter their educational and life trajectories.
The partnership has also enabled collaboration with the Kids In Need Foundation. This year, the effort supported 3,800 teachers in Portland, Oregon; Dayton, Ohio; Charlotte, North Carolina; Wichita, Kansas; and Little Canada, Minnesota. By providing 4,021 educational resources, including 2,100 books and 1,921 teacher supplies, the organizations are helping educators create engaging learning environments. These resources allow teachers to focus on inspiring a love of reading and helping every child reach their potential.
Beyond these broad initiatives, the program addresses unique community needs. At Atlantic Coast High School in Jacksonville, Florida, 250 books were provided to students, expanding access to educational resources and supporting academic achievement. In Tucson, Arizona, 210 books were distributed through a partnership with the Tucson Police Department, demonstrating how literacy can strengthen community ties and unite people around a shared commitment to children’s success.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to discover the power of a book, and our partnership with Scholastic is helping make that possible for thousands of children across the Nation,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, U.S. Marines (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “When a child turns the page of a book, they also turn the page toward new possibilities in life.”
The continued success of these initiatives underscores what can be achieved when organizations unite for a common cause. Together, they are helping disadvantaged children across America turn the page toward opportunity, one book, one child, and one future at a time. To learn more about the Toys for Tots Literacy Program or to donate, visit https://www.toysfortots.org/programs/literacy-program.
