Churchill and Clareview LRT stations looked more like libraries yesterday as dozens of volunteers — including Mayor Stephen Mandel and MLA Rachel Notley — handed out free books to morning commuters in support of International Literacy Day.
“The statistics say that 40 per cent of Albertans are functioning below a Grade 12 reading and writing level, and approximately 22 per cent of people are functioning below a Grade 9 level,” said Edmonton literacy works committee member Rachel Posch.
Posch went on to say that there are a large number of programs available to help those wanting to improve their literacy. People can learn more about these resources by calling 211.
Najden Ciric, 25, learned about some of these programs through a friend and had only good things to say about the experience.
“(Going in) I felt kind of nervous, kind of ashamed and embarrassed, but it all worked out in the end. It’s especially made me more confident in life, in working on my goals in life,” Ciric said.
“Right now, I’m working and I’m very happy. There’s a lot of paperwork at my job, but I’m feeling pretty good about it,” he added, smiling.
