During the grand opening of the new Ross Dress for Less store on Saturday, July 19, Arland D. Williams Elementary School was presented with a $2,500 donation in support of student literacy. The event, marked the store’s official opening and highlighted Ross’ commitment to giving back to the Mattoon community.
The funds will be used to purchase new, high-quality books for Williams Elementary students through First Book, a nonprofit organization that works to expand access to educational resources for schools serving children in need.
Librarian Beth Hettinger accepted the donation on behalf of the school and spoke to the importance of the gift:
“A teacher’s job is to teach children to read. A librarian’s job is to teach children to love to read. This generous gift will help us put more books in the hands of our children and open the world of books to those who may not have had the opportunity otherwise. We are so very grateful.”
Williams Elementary is grateful to Ross for supporting local education and helping foster a love of reading among its students.