Since 2004, we have been dedicated to putting books in the hands of children in high-needs communities across Canada. With the support of Indigo and its customers, we have committed over $35 million to over 3,500 schools, impacting more than 1 million children.
The Indigo Love of Reading Foundation exists to ensure that all Canadian kids have access to books and the opportunity to fall in love with reading. The Literacy Fund Grant is our largest national granting program, and was created to dramatically increase literacy access for kids across the country.
Literacy Fund Grants are awarded to schools and in some cases educational organizations in high-needs communities who are committed to fostering a love of reading and have a robust plan for how they would utilize new books and resources to enhance their vision. Generally, we define “high-needs” as a community challenged by socio-economic factors however, we consider other intersectional factors as well.
Every year, hundreds of schools across Canada apply for this grant to increase access to books for the children and youth they serve and while we work to reach as many as possible, generally only about 30 partners are selected. Both community need and vision for the grant are considered within the decision-making process, with full details available on the rubric provided. Grants are dispersed over a multi-year period. During that time, we work with grant recipients to track short- and long- term impacts, amplify stories of change and ultimately inspire other schools, parents, communities, and organizations to invest in literacy as well. Other benefits of the partnership include access to professional development opportunities, classroom resources and more!
Additionally, note that applications close February 28, 2025, 11:59 PM EST for First Nations-operated schools and organizations only.
Adopt a School is a fundraising campaign and grant program designed in partnership with Indigo, Coles, Chapters, and Indigospirit stores to raise funds for literacy in schools across Canada. What makes this program so unique is that 100% of the funds raised by each store location goes directly to their partner school for the purchase of new books and literacy materials for their school and classroom libraries.
To be eligible for consideration for the Adopt a School Grant, school applicants must:
- Receive at least 80% of their funding from the provincial or federal government
- Demonstrate financial need
- Serve elementary age students in grades K-8
- Exhibit a strong commitment to literacy!
APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2025 ADOPT A SCHOOL PROGRAM WILL BE AVAILABLE IN FEBRUARY 2025.