The Upsilon Chapter project, Books for Babies, encourages mothers to read to their children. Upsilon Chapter has continued this project for over fifteen years. Each new mother at Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center receives a tote bag containing books and literature about the importance of reading to young children. Nurses at the hospital give the new mother the gift before she is dismissed from the hospital, and the nurses comment that the mothers are very appreciative.
Chapter Bags Books for Babies at October 2015 Meeting
Books for Babies begins 15th Year in Fall 2013
Books for Babies is entering its 15th year. This program is made possible by Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Upsilon Chapter. The organization is comprised of women educators, and Upsilon Chapter represents all of Chaffee County. The program involves presenting two books to parents of infants born at Heart of the Rockies Medical Center. It is the group's hope that parents will start reading to their infant as soon as possible. Educational research supports an early start which not only promotes a close parent-child bond but helps children become better readers & students later on. With technology replacing many actual books, Upsilon members hope children will still be able to feel a fuzzy picture or experience an illustration that 'pops up' when they turn a page. The donated, colorful books will provide that opportunity. Money for the purchase of the books has come from donations by local organizations and businesses. Upsilon members also contribute by delivering flowers for Mountain Meadows on Valentine's and Mother's Day. Recently, 230 bags were filled for Books for Babies. -- Janet Steiner, Co-Chair
Members Fill "Books for Babies" Bags
Below, Marie Armstrong, Janet Steiner, Theresa Cortese and Kathy Roman filled 230 bags with books. Members who were unable to help fill bags, folded literature and applied book plate stickers. Begun in 1998 and encompassing all of Chaffee County, the project continues the chapter’s belief in the value of reading to children as soon as possible. The bags, containing two books and literature encouraging early reading, are given to new parents at the Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center in Salida. New parents are often very busy, but DKG members hope they have enjoyed receiving the books and are using them. The funds for the project have come from various sources over the years: civic organizations, grants, personal donations and member activities. As we start our next fundraising time, donations would be greatly appreciated. Anyone interested in making a donation can contact president Theresa Cortese at 719.539.6759, co-chairmen, Janet Steiner at 719.395.8125 or Kathy Roman at 719.395.6812.
Updated Dec 11, 2015