Two local organizations are set to receive over $230,000 in combined literacy grants to grow and enhance their programs, thanks to support from State Senator Cristina Castro.

“Community-based literacy programs provide a safe and enriching opportunity for residents to improve their skills alongside their children,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This funding will build on our work in Illinois to promote literacy, expand access to adult education and strengthen opportunities for lifelong, family-centered learning.”

The latest round of funding from Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias includes nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million to support literacy programs throughout the state.

Two agencies in the district Castro represents will receive a total of $235,485 to support adult and family literacy programs that assist learners in enhancing their reading, writing, math and English-language skills. This includes $100,000 for YWCA Elgin and $135,485 for the Literacy Connection in Elgin.

“Equipping our libraries with the resources they need to increase services and expand offerings is essential to enhancing the accessibility of learning materials for all Illinois residents regardless of their geographic location, accessibility needs, income status or educational level,” Giannoulias said. “Meanwhile, increasing the state’s literacy level results in opportunities for individual success and makes communities stronger.”

A full list of grantees can be found here.