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About Room to Read

Founded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®, Room to Read develops children’s foundational literacy skills, as well as life skills that promote gender equality. As a leading implementer, Room to Read nurtures these essential skills in children by training and coaching educators, creating quality learning materials and spaces, and strengthening education systems – all while honoring the dignity of every child. We develop and deliver evidence-based materials and approaches directly and with partners. We are a valuable partner of choice for government, other system and program partners as well as investors focused on education. Committed to accelerating learning outcomes for more children, more quickly, we have benefited more than 50 million children across 28 countries.

By the end of 2027, we aim to double the number of children and communities we support each year. Room to Read envisions a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality, where all children have room to read, learn and grow.

Our Work in the Middle East

At Room to Read, we believe every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive. In 2022, we launched our “Reaching All Children” program in Lebanon, and by December 2024, we’ve made incredible strides:

• Established 15 libraries in Non-Formal Education (NFE) centers, bringing the joy of reading to underserved communities.
• Distributed 90,000+ children’s books in Modern Standard Arabic, ensuring children have access to stories that inspire and educate.
• Supported 300+ reading corners and provided teacher training to empower educators and foster a love of reading.

In response to the 2024 emergency crisis in Lebanon, which displaced 2 million people, we:

• Provided 25,000 hot meals to families in need.
• Distributed 10,000 emergency education packs to ensure children could continue learning, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Our Vision for 2025-2027

We’re not stopping there! Over the next three years, we aim to:

• Establish 15 libraries in non-formal and semi-private schools.
• Create 10 public school reading corners to expand access to books and literacy resources.
• Develop a Peace Building Life Skills curriculum for children aged 10-14, empowering them with the tools to build a brighter future.

Supporting Children in Palestine

In Palestine, we’ve already printed 10,000 emergency education kits to ensure children can continue learning during crises. In 2025, we’re partnering with local authors, illustrators, and publishers to create 10 new children’s books focused on social cohesion and peace building.

How You Can Help

Your support can help us bring the power of literacy and education to even more children in Lebanon, Palestine, and beyond. Together, we can create a world where every child has the opportunity to read, learn, and dream.

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