B.C. Government Provides Continued Support for Literacy Programs Across the Province

The B.C. government is once again backing literacy efforts that help children and families build stronger futures through reading and learning. This year, the government is investing $500,000 into the Raise-a-Reader campaign, which works to enhance literacy among young readers and families across British Columbia.

Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, highlighted the importance of literacy as the foundation for strong communities, noting that it plays a critical role in everything from childhood development to career success.

The Raise-a-Reader campaign, which runs from September 19 to 26, has been a key funding source for literacy programs since 1997. Through this initiative, donations help provide reading materials and fund community-based programs throughout B.C., including public libraries and schools. In total, the B.C. government has contributed $4.5 million to the campaign since 2017.

Sandra Lee, executive director of Decoda Literacy Solutions, underscored how vital the campaign is in rural and remote communities, where it empowers families and supports educational initiatives such as community gardens, sports, and after-school programs. The initiative also partners with organizations like Poverty Advocacy Nanaimo to help children build confidence and a love for learning.

Matea Kulić from the Association of Book Publishers of B.C. also praised the government’s investment, noting how it strengthens both literacy access and the provincial publishing industry, which contributes over $57 million to B.C.’s economy.

The government’s ongoing investment in literacy is part of a broader commitment to ensure accessibility for all British Columbians, regardless of age or geographic location. In addition to supporting Raise-a-Reader, the province allocates millions of dollars each year to other literacy initiatives, including public library funding and adult literacy programs.

This year’s campaign, delivered in partnership with Decoda Literacy Solutions, continues to be a vital part of B.C.’s efforts to make literacy a universal tool for success, helping to build more resilient and connected communities throughout the province.