To celebrate our birthday, we planned a special event on April 2nd — but it was no longer a day for a party. Instead, we raised money from our community to donate Shout Mouse Press books.

Through a one-day campaign, enough gifts were given to donate 375 books to local readers in need! We started the day with the goal of giving 100 books -- but surpassed this initial goal by noon. As always, we are grateful to our community for your bold and wonderful support! 

The Chancellor of DC Public Schools estimates that about 30% of the school system’s 52,000 students lack technology devices and reliable internet. That means that no matter how valiant the efforts to move learning online, not all DC kids will be reached. That’s why we wanted to get actual books into their hands ASAP — and who better to inspire DC young readers than DC young writers who published their own books?

Through a partnership with the D.C. Department of Human Services, packages of 3 inclusive titles from our catalog -- one young adult and two children’s picture books -- will be gifted to families experiencing homelessness  living in short-term shelters in Wards 1, 7, and 8.

• The Horizon, Ward 7 (35 families)

• The Triumph, Ward 8 (50 families)

• Hope Apartments, Ward 8 (10 families)

• Girard Street Family Shelter, Ward 1 (20 families)

All books were packaged following health and safety guidelines and delivered by Kathy this week.

Two letters accompanied each gift: one from Shout Mouse Press Founder Kathy and one from Carl, an SMP author. Here’s an excerpt from Carl’s letter, which we echo!

I know that now we all are experiencing some hardships of our own with the current situation at hand. I just want to let you know that although these are tough times, we can see it through with continued encouragement and support from each other. I also want you to know that I am thinking of you and hoping that you can continue to smile throughout these tough times. We are in this together!

With these books, we hope that you can not only get a sense of enjoyment from the stories told but also find words of encouragement through these pieces written by other kids and teens like yourselves.

Thank you all and stay safe and healthy!