SMIF Early Literacy Grant Program

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) recently awarded 26,797 children’s books to 75 organizations through its Early Literacy Grant Program, impacting 31,543 children in its 20-county region. 

This grant supports early literacy efforts that enhance school readiness for children birth to age eight by providing children with books.  

• Goodhue County Education District Birth-3 Program 

• Wabasha-Kellogg Public Schools 

• Lake City Public Schools 

• Pine Island Early Childhood/Early Learning Center 

• Red Wing Public Schools 

• Three Rivers Community Action Inc in Zumbrota 

• Under the Rainbow Early Education Center in Red Wing 

• United Way of Steele County 

• Wabasha County Social Services 

• 
  

The books were awarded in partnership with Capstone and ABDO, Mankato-based publishers of children’s books and digital products and services.