A Kona book store’s effort to purchase books for at-risk students out of school due to the coronavirus pandemic is gaining momentum.
More than $6,300 has been raised via the Education Support Drive that began in late March, according to an update from coordinator Brenda McConnell, co-owner of Kona Stories, which opened in Kailua-Kona in 2006 and temporarily closed its physical doors last month due to COVID-19 concerns.
“I made my first delivery this week to Ulu Wini Place and Friends of the Children of West Hawaii,” McConnell said Friday afternoon. She also noted she reached out to Facebook group Kona Moms to pick up educational materials, and is working on getting the items to foster parents as well.
Public and public charter schools, and most private schools, closed in mid-March following spring break leaving thousands of students out of the classroom across the state. Schools are currently slated to remain closed through April 30. The books and materials are being ordered through publishers Scholastic and Workman.
Donations can be made several ways, including by calling the book store at 324-0350 or visiting www.konastories.com/education-support-drive and using a credit card or mailing a check payable to Kona Stories to PO Box 390924, Keauhou, HI 96739.
“The out pouring of donations is overwhelming and I feel so blessed to be part of this community,” McConnell said.