Adelphi, Maryland (Monday, January 20, 2020) – Putting new books in the hands of area youth.  96.3 WHUR and United Way of the National Capital Area hit the streets of Adelphi, Maryland Monday to collect age appropriate books for middle school students across the DMV.

The effort was part of a daylong event at Buck Lodge Middle School in honor of Dr. King Day.  Hundreds of students packed the school to participate in workshops, plays, and a host of other activities designed to foster a cultural community engagement to reinforce the legacy of Dr. King.

Additionally, participants were encouraged to bring grade appropriate books to help advance the reading skills and improve academic outcomes for low income middle school students across the Washington region.  Books collected will benefit community schools in the DMV. “We know the power of reading and how opening up a book can literally expand the mind and imagination of our youth,” said WHUR General Manager Sean Plater.  According to the Literacy Project, the number of books in the home directly correlates with higher reading scores for children.  “That’s why working with United Way of National Capital Area on the ‘Stuff the Bus Book Drive’ is such a powerful campaign and WHUR is proud to play a role in empowering our young people,” added Plater.

Studies also show that students who choose what they read and have an informal environment in which to read tend to be more motivated, read more, and show greater language and literacy development.

The “Stuff the Bus Book Drive” runs through January 31st.  There is still time to donate books directly to United Way or to go on-line to make a donation.  For a list of books needed or to make a donation, click the link.   unitedwayncabookdrive.  Book prices range between $6.00 – $15.00 per book. For as little as $30, you can supply 5 students with a new book.