Dollar General’s Literacy Foundation awards more than $8.6M in grants

Dollar General is looking to make an impact via its Literacy Foundation.

The Goodlettsville, Tenn.-based company announced its largest one-day grant, which totaled more than $8.6 million.

Awarded to approximately 970 nonprofit organizations, libraries and schools, the grant aims to support the educational journey of students, while also enhancing literacy and education initiatives in the communities the retailer serves.

“During these extraordinary times, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to support communities’ literacy and educational advancements through funds that will impact thousands of students across the country,” Todd Vasos, Dollar General’s CEO and Dollar General Literacy Foundation board member, said. “We are proud to support the meaningful and impactful work that each of today’s recipients conduct and support their ongoing efforts to help individuals improve their lives through literacy and education.”

Those who receive the grants will use the funds to promote literacy and learning across a variety of programs that include childhood summer reading, helping adults learn to read, prepare for the high school equivalency exam, and aiding those looking to learn the English language.

“For more than 26 years, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has invested in programs that help uplift and empower others through education,” Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, said. “In the wake of the pandemic, as more youth are in need of academic support and an increased number of adults are looking to enhance their basic skills and employability, we proudly continue our support of basic education and literacy initiatives for individuals of all ages. We are grateful for the hardworking teachers and nonprofit leaders who are serving students in our hometown communities and hope these funds help advance their efforts.”

In addition, the retailer’s Literacy Program is accepting applications for youth literacy grants that support schools, public libraries and nonprofit organizations implementing new literacy efforts or expanding upon existing ones, the company said.