The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program is addressing a critical educational gap with its annual back-to-school initiative, Operation Turn the Page. The program, which has distributed more than 63 million books and educational resources to underserved children since 2008, aims to mitigate the effects of summer learning loss and ensure students return to school prepared to succeed.
According to the organization, the need for such literacy support remains significant. In low-income communities, there may be as few as one age-appropriate book for every 300 children. This scarcity can hinder academic progress, and the lack of reading materials during summer months can exacerbate learning loss, making the transition back to school more difficult.
“A single book may seem like a small gift, but for a child impacted by summer learning loss, it can open the door to possibilities they never knew existed,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, U.S. Marines (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “When children living in low-income communities have access to books throughout the summer, they return to school more confident, engaged, and prepared to learn. When you give a book, you unlock a future.”
Operation Turn the Page’s impact is evident in the experiences of educators and students. At United Elementary, more than 400 books were distributed, creating excitement that extended beyond the classroom. “With over 400 new books in the hands of our students, we’re seeing excitement, pride, and a growing love of reading both in school and at home,” staff shared.
Teachers have also witnessed transformative moments. At Entheos Academy, one teacher recounted, “One student’s face lit up with pure wonder when she found a book about baseball—proof that the right book can spark a lifelong love of reading.” Similarly, a Freedom Trail Elementary teacher noted, “For many of our students, receiving these books means more than just reading—it’s the beginning of their first home library and a lifelong love of learning.”
The initiative focuses on helping children in need stay connected to learning throughout the summer, allowing them to return to the classroom ready to thrive. By providing access to books, the program aims to strengthen literacy skills and foster a love of reading that can lead to long-term academic success.
“When you give a book, you unlock a future,” Laster emphasized. The program encourages supporters to contribute to Operation Turn the Page, as each book can help a child start the school year with confidence and a stronger foundation for learning.
For more information or to donate, visit the Toys for Tots Literacy Program page.
