Book Trust Maui County is a terrific nonprofit organization that provides a pathway to literacy for needy children by growing their passion for reading.

Launched in Maui County in 2005, Book Trust now serves 4,000 students in all 20 public schools on Maui, Molokai and Lanai.

This important charity enriches the literacy culture of needy families by providing keiki the opportunity to choose, own and enjoy books — an average of 2-3 books each month during the school year.

These books build a home library, bring a lifetime of benefits and can change a child’s life.

“Access to books is a key predictor to success in school. Millions of children from low-income families will never have the opportunity to build a library of books at home and establish a culture of literacy among their family,” the organization noted.

“Book Trust helps open the door to literacy for children and families who might not otherwise have this vital opportunity.”

Learn about the organization at Book Trust Maui County’s Literary Luncheon on Saturday, June 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at King Kamehameha Golf Club. Local author and artist Jackie Pias Carlin will speak, and guests can meet Amy Friedman, executive director of Book Trust’s national operation.

Tickets are $75 (including lunch), with proceeds supporting the campaign to purchase books for needy Maui children. Keep in mind that a gift of around $70 will sponsor a child’s book selections for the whole school year.

Mahalo to Debbie Fitts, director of Book Trust Maui County, for promoting the program here.

Help change the lives of underprivileged children through books. Register for the luncheon by May 31 by contacting Fitts at dfitts@booktrust.org or (808) 298-1225.