Dec. 15, 2006

Contacts:

Cargill Helps Enhance Learning and Literacy for Harrisonburg Youth

Dayton, Va. – To help provide early learning and literacy opportunities for children in Harrisonburg and surrounding communities, Cargill has donated $10,000 to the Office of Children and Youth, a partnership program with James Madison University that provides information and referral services for children and youth.

Cargill’s funds will be used to continue the operation of The Reading Road Show, Bus Gus, which is a mobile learning unit that travels to designated points in the area providing English and Spanish literacy opportunities. The mobile library includes diverse books appropriate for young children. Gus visits local neighborhoods, daycare centers, pre-kindergarten classrooms and low-income housing sites to invite children and parents onboard to read together.

“From Cargill’s generous support, children will have access to enhanced learning environments that will ultimately improve our entire community,” said Jane Hubbell, M.Ed, administrative director, Office of Children and Youth. “This grant is another way Cargill is helping to support our community’s most valuable resource – our children.”

“Cargill is proud to work with the Office of Children and Youth to enhance educational opportunities for children,” said Jimmie Ritchie, controller, Cargill Dayton. “We are excited about this opportunity to make a substantial difference in the Harrisonburg community”