Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Mid-Hudson) announced that Literacy Connections of Dutchess, Columbia, and Greene Counties have been awarded almost $52,000 from the State Education Department. This funding is part of a statewide allocation that was enacted as part of this year’s state budget.

"I’m pleased to see this crucial funding go to important programs that fight illiteracy in our community,” Assemblymember Barrett said. “In today’s day and age, it’s extremely difficult to get hired without the ability to read and write. This funding allows our vital literacy programs to continue the important work they do, putting more Mid-Hudson families on path to a successful future.”

"I am simply overjoyed to hear this wonderful news today. This is the first increase in funding our organization has received in over five years to help us with our mission,” said Executive Director of Literacy Connections Margaret Pfaff. “With this funding, we will be able to keep our Adult and Youth literacy programs running. Over 80 percent of the kids that enter our Book Buddies program are able to read at or above their current grade level after the first year."

Assemblymember Barrett is an advocate for improving literacy programs in New York State. She is currently sponsoring a ‘Summer Reading Challenge’ as part of the Assembly’s coordinated effort with the New York State Library to encourage summer reading and promote the importance of staying sharp for school in the fall.