Did you know 550,000 adults in Philadelphia struggle to complete a basic job application due to low literacy levels from their childhood? The Read for the House project, which our middle school is working on this month, provides us with an opportunity to help kids of any age to be better equipped when they become adults.

“Read for the House” is an organization set up by the Ronald McDonald House to encourage reading in kids across Philadelphia. The Ronald McDonald House provides lodging, transportation, meals, and important social services to families who travel to Philadelphia for pediatric care. The books and money donated go to those families that are less fortunate.

When Mrs. Catania was asked, “Why did we bring this program to the middle school and what has been the response?” she responded with, “This has been a tremendous activity for the middle school and parents and students love helping all these children. Secondly, our middle school students benefit from reading more books themselves at the start of every community block so they understand the importance of books and reading.”

Following the huge success of our annual blue and white day in fundraising for our sports teams, we can take this opportunity to reflect on how we can also help others in the community. By donating and showing our support, we can show how our brotherhood extends beyond the Malvern campus.