Now in its fourth year, the annual book drive collects and donates books to students in Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 at local schools to encourage reading and help support children maintain their literacy skills over the summer holidays.

“It has been a tough few months for many in our community, particularly young children in their first few years of school trying to deal with a long lockdown and remote learning.

“The kids have done a great job, and so have their parents. I know that they’re excited to be back at school and these books will help them keep reading over summer”, Mr Scully said.

Last year the book drive gathered over 3000 books for children in five local schools, as well as donating books to SAHSSI for families fleeing domestic violence.

“Despite the hardship of last year, the willingness of our local community to get involved and help out others where they can never ceases to amaze me”

Mr Scully said because of COVID this year’s book drive had to be slightly different from other years and that only new books can be donated.

“I used to love getting a book every Christmas as a kid. Some kids don’t have lots of books at home or aren’t confident readers, and I hope that having a book to keep and to read will help them”

“I’m asking the local community to come out again and support my book drive, by donating new books for local Kinder, Year 1 and Year 2 students, or you can donate a book voucher if that’s easier”, Mr Scully said.

Books can be donated until 10 December 2021 at Mr Scully’s office at G2, 51 Crown Street, Wollongong, or his office can be contacted to make other arrangements.