For 2026, our goal is to raise $15,000.

This equals providing approximately 3750 books total, to 750 local children.

​

To date, all funds raised by Books for Kids Columbia Gorge go directly to purchasing books. The local organization is 100% volunteer run. How this works:

1. The local advisory board raises funds each fall through private donations and local grants.

2. Educators apply for a "Books for Kids" (previously FirstBook) grant, to provide books to their students to keep. Only educators serving a high-poverty population may apply.

3. Educators are awarded credits at the FirstBook Marketplace. They "purchase" books directly for their students, based on the unique needs and interests of each child.

4. Children get to keep the books provided, helping to create a library of books in their home that are theirs to keep.

​