7 Literary Foundations to Donate to for the Holidays
The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to spread joy than by supporting organizations that champion literacy, literature, and the arts? Around the world, countless foundations work to provide books to underserved communities, foster creativity through storytelling, and promote the transformative power of reading. By donating to these literary foundations, you’re not only giving back but also helping to nurture the next generation of readers, writers, and dreamers.
Here are some outstanding literary foundations to consider supporting this holiday season.
First Book
First Book is a nonprofit dedicated to closing the gap in education equity by providing children in need with access to high-quality books and resources. Since its inception, the organization has distributed over 225 million books to children across the globe.
Your contribution helps put books directly into the hands of kids who might otherwise go without and helps foster a lifelong love of reading.
826 National
This creative writing nonprofit operates a network of tutoring centers across the United States, where students receive free writing workshops and after-school programs. Known for its imaginative spaces (like pirate shops and superhero supply stores), 826 National inspires creativity and supports young writers.
Contributions go toward programs that help students strengthen their writing skills and explore the power of storytelling.
The World Literacy Foundation
Dedicated to eradicating illiteracy worldwide, the World Literacy Foundation provides books, digital resources, and educational support to children in impoverished communities. Their efforts focus on empowering children to break the cycle of poverty through literacy.
Your gift supports global literacy initiatives, ensuring more children have access to education and opportunities.
PEN America
PEN America champions freedom of expression, supporting writers and journalists who face persecution or censorship. They also advocate for diversity in literature and run programs to promote marginalized voices in publishing.
By supporting PEN America, you’re standing up for free speech and helping to amplify voices that need to be heard.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, this program sends free, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, regardless of their family’s income. The Imagination Library has distributed millions of books to children across the globe.
Your contribution helps instill a love of reading in children at the most formative stage of their lives.
National Book Foundation
The National Book Foundation celebrates the best in American literature through its prestigious National Book Awards and other programs, like BookUp, which connects underserved middle schoolers with inspiring literature.
Supporting the foundation helps foster a love of reading and writing in middle schoolers while shining a spotlight on exceptional authors.
Room to Read
Room to Read focuses on literacy and gender equality in education and works in low-income communities around the world. They build libraries, publish children’s books in local languages, and support girls in achieving their educational goals.
Your gift helps provide educational opportunities to children and young women, transforming lives and communities.
Donating to literary foundations during the holidays is a meaningful way to give back while fostering a love of reading and learning in others. These organizations work tirelessly to share the joy of books and the opportunities they provide. Whether you’re passionate about supporting kids, championing freedom of expression, or addressing global illiteracy, there’s a foundation that aligns with your values. This holiday season, let your generosity help create a world where everyone can access the magic of words.
