Toys for Tots' Operation Turn the Page Aims to Combat Summer Learning Loss with Books

The back-to-school season brings excitement and promise for millions of children, but for many in low-income communities, the lack of access to books and educational resources poses a significant challenge. The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program is addressing this issue with Operation Turn the Page, a nationwide initiative based on the belief that giving a book can unlock a future.

Since 2008, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program has distributed more than 63 million books and educational resources to underserved children. The need remains critical, as low-income neighborhoods may have only one age-appropriate book for every 300 children. Without access to books, students often struggle to develop literacy skills, and summer learning loss can make the transition back to school even harder. Operation Turn the Page focuses on keeping children connected to learning during the summer and helping them return to the classroom ready to thrive.

Lieutenant General Jim Laster, U.S. Marines (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, emphasized the importance of the program: “A single book may seem like a small gift, but for a child impacted by summer learning loss, it can open the door to possibilities they never knew existed. When children living in low-income communities have access to books throughout the summer, they return to school more confident, engaged, and prepared to learn. When you give a book, you unlock a future.”

The impact of Operation Turn the Page is evident in the stories from educators. A teacher at Freedom Trail Elementary noted, “For many of our students, receiving these books means more than just reading—it’s the beginning of their first home library and a lifelong love of learning.” At United Elementary, over 400 books were distributed, with staff sharing, “With over 400 new books in the hands of our students, we’re seeing excitement, pride, and a growing love of reading both in school and at home.” At Entheos Academy, a teacher recalled, “One student’s face lit up with pure wonder when she found a book about baseball—proof that the right book can spark a lifelong love of reading.”

These stories illustrate the program’s mission: ensuring that disadvantaged children have access to books over the summer so they can enter the classroom with confidence and a stronger foundation for success. As children prepare to return to school, supporters have the power to help write the next chapter of their success story. A single book can inspire a love of reading, strengthen literacy skills, and help a child start the school year ready to learn. By supporting Operation Turn the Page, donors are doing more than giving a book—they are helping disadvantaged children turn the page on summer learning loss and toward academic success and a brighter future.

For more information or to donate, visit the Toys for Tots Literacy Program.