Best known for helping people get affordable housing, the non-profit Homeport has taken up collecting books. For the second year, it is stocking up on books for children and teens to read during school breaks. If we could get at least one book into the hands of each child living in our communities, that would be wonderful," Homeport volunteer engagement manager Morgen Wade said. That means Homeport needs to collect at least 2,500 books in its Bright Ideas Book Bank program. Wade said 3,000 new books would be ideal. She said the book drive is an additional service the group offers to help families thrive in their new homes. A big focus of what we do are our resources for kids," Wade said. "The book bank seemed like an excellent next step because homes and education are two critical factors to long-term success."
The list of 76 books includes children's classics, such as The Cat in the Hat, and contemporary teen reads, like The Hunger Games. Last year, 2,000 books were collected for children to read during summer and winter breaks. Book drop-off locations: Homeport, 562 E. Main St., Columbus, until Dec. 10 Columbus-area Starbucks, until Dec. 6