NOTE:

I put “[my state] congressman” into google and it took me to a page where I could email both of my senators. It was great. It only took me about three minutes to email them both. It may not change anything, but I thought you should know how easy it is!

Hello. I am writing to you because I am concerned about President Bush’s proposed budget which will eliminate funding for the Reading Is Fundamental program. I feel very strongly that it is our responsibility as Americans to give the children served by RIF every opportunity that is not afforded to them because of their economic or social situation.

RIF has given us an excellent opportunity to put books in the hands of children who otherwise would not have them. These are not books they have to return to the library, but are books they are allowed to keep, to own, to handle, and to share with siblings and other family members. Studies have shown that books in these children’s hands have a positive impact on their life for the long term. How can we sit by, and in good faith, allow this budget cut? I hope that when the time comes, you will stand up for America’s children and reinstate the funding for the Reading Is Fundamental program.