Interim Police Chief Headlines Program to Promote Literacy for Children

Approximately 50 to 75 children showed up at Southridge Mall on Saturday afternoon to hear stories and partake in some fun activities sponsored by The Simon Kidgits Club, headlined by a reading to the children from interim Police Chief Robert Malasuk.

The event was held to promote literacy for children, as well as compassionate giving to those less fortunate.

Several stories were read to the children, including “The Little Engine That Could”, “Strawberry Shortcake: My First Sleepover”, and “Shoes” - the story of a young girl who has lots of shoes and realizes that there are those who do not have any shoes, and decides to do something about it. Children also participated in several games, including a group dance that brought lots of laughter and cheering to the crowd.

“The Little Engine That Could” also prefaced a sneak preview of the new feature-length movie based on the story, which will be released on DVD March 22nd. In addition, “Shoes” was read to draw attention to a new series of books by The Orphan Campaign, a group that is devoted to inspire selflessness and compassion in children. For every $30 donated to the group, a new pair of shoes will be purchased and delivered to an orphan in one of 68 countries. Also, a free copy of the “Shoes” book will be sent to the family that made the donation.

Children and their parents were also encouraged to bring a book to be donated to the Sojourner Family Peace Center.

The event ran from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the center of Southridge Mall. Children were encouraged to sit in the middle of a platform together to listen to the stories and partake in the activities, while their parents stood behind the platform. The mood was full of energy and excitement, and it was clear that the children certainly enjoyed themselves.