People’s United Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of People’s United Bank, announced today that it has awarded $5,650 to the Stern Center for Language & Learning in Williston. The funding from People’s United Community Foundation will support Building Blocks for Literacy in Franklin County, an early childhood literacy skills development program. The program trains early childhood providers and parents on strategies for teaching pre-literacy skill development to ensure children have a solid foundation for success in school and life.
Brenda Buzzell, Building Blocks’ Coordinator, was delighted to learn about the grant. “This donation from People’s United Community Foundation for our early care and education providers in Franklin County is fabulous! Our communities are so very fortunate to benefit from People’s United’s high level of commitment to support children and families.”
A research-proven program, Building Blocks for Literacy® has demonstrated the greatest impact on children who are most at risk of reading failure. The People’s United Community Foundation grant will provide opportunities for caregivers and parents to attend a variety of training and workshops.
“The Stern Center is a wonderful resource in our community,” said Michael Seaver, Officer, People’s United Community Foundation and President of People’s United Bank in Vermont. “It is committed to ensuring the most successful literacy practices are put in to place for our children.”
Established in 2007, People’s United Community Foundation was formed to help support programs and activities that enhance the quality of life for citizens in the communities that People’s United Bank serves. People’s United Bank, founded in 1842 and serving customers from New York to Maine through a network of more than 400 branches, is the largest independent bank headquartered in New England. The Foundation places special emphasis on programs designed to promote economic self-sufficiency, education and improved conditions for low-income families and neighborhoods. The funding priorities of the Foundation include affordable housing, community development, and youth development.