CHA receives 32,000 books from National Book Foundation to distribute to youth

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) is a proud recipient of 32,000 books from the National Book Foundation’s “Book Rich Environments” program, and has spent the summer distributing those books at its sites all over Chicago.

About 20,000 books are being distributed from CHA property management offices, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) satellite offices, computer labs, summer food sites, Local Advisory Council (LAC) offices and CHA summer youth programs including SYEP, Learn and Earn, DePaul programs and University of Chicago programs.

Another 12,000 books will be distributed at the CHA Operation Warm Coat Distribution Event on Oct. 21.

“The Book Rich Environments program promotes a love of reading in children and youth. We are excited to get even more books into the hands of children and their families this year,” said CHA CEO Tracey Scott.

Ruth Dickey, Executive Director of National Book Foundation, said: “We are so thrilled and grateful to be able to distribute over 320,000 books nationally this year through Book Rich Environments--the largest donation year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Books provide a vital outlet for young people where they can explore new worlds and see themselves reflected in endless possibilities.”