By Joseph Cyr
Staff Writer
HOULTON — Summer is often identified as a time for enjoying outdoor recreational activities, but that does not mean children can not pick up a good book to read.
TD Bank is encouraging children to do precisely that through its “Summer Reading” program, and in so doing, is also teaching youth about the importance of saving money. Each child that reads 10 books will receive a one-time deposit of $10 into their new or existing Young Saver Account.
“TD Bank has long supported many educational efforts in the local community it serves,” said John Tribou, store manager for the Houlton TD Bank. “Now in its ninth year, TD Bank’s Summer Reading assists in a very tangible way by promoting the value of reading on a regular basis.”
Tribou added the bank program follows a two-pronged approach. Not only does it encourage young people to read, it also teaches them the importance of saving money. All TD Bank branches from Maine to Florida are participating in the program, he said.
Open to children ages 18 and younger, the Summer Reading program began May 4 and continues through Sept. 30. Children only need to read 10 books to receive the $10 deposit into their account. Younger children may have their parents read the book with them, and parents are encouraged to have their kids say familiar words out loud or practice difficult words.
Brochures highlighting the program can be found at TD Bank’s North Street location, as well as the Cary Memorial Library. For more information, call the bank at 532-9557.