News Release

WARSAW — Operation Read is asking the community to donate new children’s books for families affected by recent hurricanes, aiming to bring comfort, learning and a sense of normalcy to children facing disruptions.

Books for ages birth to 12 years are needed and will be delivered to affected areas on three separate occasions between now and Christmas.

With the help of partner EnPak, Operation Read will collect and shrink-wrap the books for delivery. The Syracuse-Wawasee Rotary is helping to coordinate the delivery to affected areas.

Books can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 939 E. Pound Drive N., Warsaw.

“During emergencies, children lose access to safe spaces like schools and libraries, and power outages interrupt typical sources of entertainment. Books provide a crucial escape and can help calm children while keeping them engaged,” said DeeAnna Muraski, executive director at Operation Read. “With many libraries and schools destroyed, these books will also help rebuild essential resources in these communities.”

Operation Read has announced three planned deliveries leading up to Christmas to ensure that families in the hardest-hit areas will receive new books in time for the holidays.

How You Can Help

Donate a new book: Drop off new children’s books at 939 E. Pound Drive N., Warsaw, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

Coordinate a book drop: Schools, churches and local businesses are encouraged to host collection drives to support the initiative. Collected books can then be delivered to EnPak for processing and shipment.

Operation Read is a literacy social services nonprofit dedicated to fostering a love for reading among children and adults. For more information, visit the organization’s website.