On Wednesday, Fresno County Federal Credit Union presented Sheriff Margaret Mims with a check for $2,300.00.

        FCFCU raised the funds with the intent of educating our youth, in turn decreasing crime in our community. 

        In 2012, Sheriff Mims started the Reading Posse in an effort to combat illiteracy and prevent crime.  Since its inception, deputies have distributed thousands of books to less fortunate children.  The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office is partnered with the Fresno County Public Library, Fresno County Office of Education and Central Unified School District.

        Deputy Sheriffs participate in the program by carrying donated children's books in their patrol cars.  As they come into contact with children in our communities, they distribute the books free of charge.  Sheriff Mims strives to put books into the hands of children, especially those who live in underserved rural communities.

       “This particular literacy program is unique; it’s one of a kind.  I have not been able to find a similar program anywhere in the United States.  My desire is that other law enforcement agencies take up a literacy cause and develop their own literacy programs and put it out into their own communities to improve literacy in addition to the relationships between them and our community,”  said Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims.

        Citizens and businesses are encouraged to make cash donations or donate new children's books for the Sheriff's Office to distribute. Suggested reading material is for K-4th grades.  Examples can be found at http://readinginaction.org/booklist. Donations can be made to any Fresno County Library or at the Fresno County Sheriff's Office.

        To learn more about the Reading Posse program, click the link https://www.fresnosheriff.org/community/sheriff-s-reading-posse.html

        Visit the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office Youtube page to see a portion of Wednesday’s press conference.  http://youtu.be/3_a3wU8GgzE