Our mission: using the transformative power of literacy to disrupt the School-to-Prison and Foster Care-to-Prison Pipelines
Our mission: using the transformative power of literacy to disrupt the School-to-Prison and Foster Care-to-Prison Pipelines
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It’s Our Anniversary!
Seven Years of Service | Six Years of Cohort Impact
Based on our research, PSCF is the #1 online, family-based literacy program in the country!
What does that mean?
We’ve revolutionized how children read, shifting from traditional classroom-based instruction to empowering literacy from any room in the home. Through social media and ongoing engagement, we’ve built a virtual village where children practice reading and writing in a safe, supportive environment.
You’ll see more than just children reading, you’ll see the real champions behind the scenes: PSCF’s dynamic parents, deeply committed to their children’s academic success.
We Don’t Just Give Books, We Get Them Read.
Many programs distribute books. PSCF ensures they’re read. We created our very own online summer literacy class to fight summer learning loss, and it’s working!
Each day, four children will be highlighted here under the Writer’s Spotlight for exceptional writing that demonstrates the following elements: clear focus (staying on topic), strong organization and structure (using transition words), sentence fluency, vivid word choice, neat penmanship, and correct use of conventions and mechanics (punctuation).
When It Comes to Reading, Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number
Little Chelsey joined the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation Summer Reading Rewards Program at just two years old. She took a break and returned this summer (2025) at age four,more confident and expressive than ever!
Even at two, Chelsey had impressive recall. With her mother’s prompting, she could share bits and pieces of the stories read to her. At that time, she couldn’t spell or write her name,but today, she can!
During Zoom meetings, Chelsey eagerly shares her favorite parts of stories. When asked about Worms and Caterpillars Are Friends, she proudly said, “The caterpillar turned into a butterfly.” And when asked the color of the butterfly? “Rainbow,” she beamed.
During a “share your favorite story” session, Chelsey chose Be Kind, explaining that she wants people to be kind. What made her answers so special was the confidence behind them.
This is the power of starting early. Reading to children in their toddler years not only builds comprehension and vocabulary, it nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a voice of their own. So if you're wondering whether infants or toddlers are too young to learn, absolutely not. The earlier, the better!
Making Real Life Connections
Interestingly enough, today's book was really relatable for us.
Last week, we noticed what we thought were bees attempting to bore a hole in the side of our concrete-walled house. Well, we learned it was yellow jackets and not bees. They are similar in some ways, but it was also nice for Joe to see pictures up close to compare and contrast.
I enjoy the nonfiction books because, time and time again, when standardized test scores come out—this is the area where many children are drastically underachieving-
Thanks for all you do.
Good evening,
Today's book was truly inspiring, and I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude.
When Josiah was younger, he took a bit longer than other children his age to begin speaking. Once he did, I noticed early on that something wasn't quite right. He was eventually diagnosed with a speech impediment that affects his ability to pronounce words clearly. Over the years, he has been receiving speech therapy services and has made significant progress. He's become more confident, though he still tends to be quiet or hesitant in unfamiliar environments or larger groups.
One of my greatest joys is hearing him interact with friends and family members whom he trusts and feels connected to. When he was much younger, he was sometimes teased for "talking funny," which broke my heart. As a parent, I make it a point to remind him daily that he is fearfully and wonderfully made in Jesus Christ. I also help him focus on the areas where he shines, like Math, to continue building his confidence.
Thank you for your thoughtful selection of books. Josiah and I are truly grateful to be part of a community that values reading.
Warm regards, Ruth and Josiah
Pictured below: Josiah enjoying the book, The Boy Who Found His Voice, on the bus on his way to school.
This young reader's priceless joy as she unboxes her books with her mother is unforgettable.
Twenty-four children receive book boxes. A perfect group size for our Program Manager to connect with each child meaningfully.
Dear Parents,
Here you will find the guidelines for this year’s summer reading program. Click on each link to read about the requirements and expectations. For questions or concerns, click on the “Questions and Concerns” link to address any problems or share moments of celebration.
To sign-in for scheduled weekly Zoom events, please use your family number provided in your child/ren’s folders.
All Zoom meetings are mandatory: 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, & 7/9 at 6:00pm EST.
Summaries Submission Deadline:
Summaries should be submitted Monday-Friday by 7:00 PM ( EST) every day.
You have the flexibility to send your summaries between 7:00AM to 7:00PM (EST)
Click Here to Submit Summaries:
Engaging Children in Reading:
For Children Aged 6 to 7 :We encourage parents to enhance the reading experience for children aged 6 to 7 by starting with a "picture walk" before reading each book aloud. As you read, please use your pointer finger to guide your child in tracking each word. This simple technique helps your child follow along and understand where words begin and end. After reading, give your child the opportunity to illustrate and describe what they think is happening in the stories.
For Children Aged 8 to 10:Prior to writing, parents are advised to read and discuss the book with children aged 8 to 10 to ensure comprehension. Once this discussion is complete, encourage your child to write independently.
Welcome to our Zoom sessions!
( 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, & 7/9 at 6:00pm EST).
Each week, Zoom links will be provided in the morning of the respective event. During these engaging sessions, children will dive into the world of storytelling, focusing on the five titles of the week. We encourage children to express their unique interpretations of the story's beginning, middle, and end.
Important Notes:Attendance Policy: Attendance is mandatory with no exceptions
Additional Guidelines:
A. Reading Expectation: We expect each child to read one book per day to enhance their literacy skills
B. Missed Events: Please note that we expect all work to be completed.
Thank you for your cooperation, and we look forward to the exciting reading journey ahead!
Day 16 ( July, 7, 2025)
Oh, my goodness — it’s Monday, July 7, 2025!
Welcome back! We hope you had a joyful and safe holiday weekend filled with festive fun.
Today marks the first day of our final week together as summer readers in Cohort 6!
Dear Incredible PSCF Parents,
You did it! You’re now officially part of the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation legacy — champions of daily reading and defenders against the summer slide. You've helped transform your children’s reading habits, and we couldn’t be prouder.
Special applause to the families who didn’t skip a beat over the July 4th holiday.
An impressive 70% of our readers stayed committed — way to go!
Shout-out to Families #1, #3, #4, #6, #7, #8, #9, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #17, #18, and #20.
The real celebration is our children, and thanks to you, they continue to shine.
As a token of our appreciation, we’re adding an extra $0.50 to each reader’s bank this week.
Why? Because you showed what matters most — the mission to read.
A Few Friendly Reminders:
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Video submissions are still being accepted — due tonight by midnight!
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Awards will be given in three age groups: 6–7, 8–9, and 10–12. Be bold, be creative, and most of all — have fun!
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We reviewed the Zoom transcripts (another reason we record!), and unfortunately, some readers' bank balances may not reflect today’s totals due to missed sessions, inactivity, or idle screens. Let’s finish strong — fully engaged and present!
As we wrap up this incredible journey, let’s continue writing with clarity, creativity, and intention. We’re not just looking for neat handwriting — we’re looking for thoughtful, well-crafted summaries that reflect each child’s growth.
You’ve all done a tremendous job.
This has been one of our most inspiring and high-quality summers yet, and it’s all because of your dedication.
Let’s finish with a bang! 
— Your PSCF Team
💰 Bankroll
Check out the updated bankroll below.
(1.)Elizabeth A. $11.50
(2.)Alexander B. $19.25
(3.)Brooklynn B.$18.50
(4.)Mychael C.$15.50
(5.)Myles C. $15.50
(6.)Chelsey C. $11.50
(7.)Dream D. $10.50
(8.)Dasha E. $15.00
(9.)Josiah F. $15.50
(10.)Bryanna G. $17.00
(11.)Kennedy H. $9.50
(12.)Shiloh K. $15.50
(13.)Jonah K. $2.50
(14.)Zola K. $14.50
(15.)Keirhen- Lee C. $16.00
(16.)Kissakye L. $17.50
(17.)Joseph M. $15.75
(18.)Joshua P. $7.00
(19.)Ashley R. $6.00
(20.)Lindsey R. $15.25
(21.)Preston R. $16.75
(22.)Eli T. $11.00
(23.)Leia W. $18.00
(24.)Michael W. $17.75
Click link below to submit questions and concerns
English: All questions can be posted here from 8:00am to 7:00pm (EST)
Español: Todas las preguntas se puedenpublicar aquí desde las 8:00 a.m. hasta las7:00 p.m. (hora del este).
Dear Parents of Summer Readers 2025, to enrich your family's summer reading experience and foster collaboration, we've provided this question and comment section to address any immediate issues and celebrate progress in real time. We welcome your feedback. Click the link below⬇️ to send your comments, and someone will address them between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM daily.
We Are A Community of Readers...
This year's picture day is July 2, 2025. Please capture photos from the waist up, and submit images of your child/ren wearing PSCF's "Color Our World With Reading” t-shirts by midnight on July 1, 2025, at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd8avrvgxknmRKX9UTRCGN0pwi1orQ7ut_SctRSBVv1lK64Ew/viewform?usp=sf_link
Please note that a $2.00 deduction will apply for late submissions (after 12:00 am).
Submit candid pictures to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd8avrvgxknmRKX9UTRCGN0pwi1orQ7ut_SctRSBVv1lK64Ew/viewform?usp=sf_link of your child/ren reading and writing sessions once or twice a week by Friday.
Enter your child/ren in the essay contest with a 2 to 3 -minute video expressing their summer reading experience by midnight, Sunday , July 7, 2025, to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdiKf7xYWjzXGbyzZ8lzBdW8t0enFlDT0RGAz8gKZO0KFyK0Q/viewform?usp=sf_link , subject: video for ( provide child's name). Prizes include $50.00. One winner from each of the three age groups: ages 6 to 7, 8 to 9, and ages 10 to 12. ( Note: only children who have submitted 20 summaries and have met all stipulations will be considered.)
TIPS FOR CREATING A GREAT VIDEO ESSAY:
To help you craft a compelling entry for the video essay contest with the theme "My Summer Reading Experience with the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation, Inc.," ensure your video addresses all aspects of the topic:
Include the following:
Note:
Prepare by writing your video before filming, practice speech before filming. Before submission, make sure the video has high-quality visuals and sound.
Your input is invaluable to our growth process. 🌱 Please take a moment to complete the following forms:
a. Evaluation: Share your thoughts on your summer reading experience.
b. Book Request: Note, this year (2025) books were mailed early. Look inside your boxes
If your child would like to select a book to add to their growing home library, please submit your request form as soon as possible. This helps us process checks and book orders efficiently.
c. The Attitude of Gratitude: Last year, we asked for your support in creating heartfelt "thank you" notes for our sponsor, Barnes & Noble Potomac Yard. It was a success, and we're making it an annual tradition.
d. Reviews: If you believe our program can benefit other children and their families, please help us expand by writing a review on Facebook. You can start the process here: https://www.facebook.com/Peachesandsourcream/reviews
Please note that checks and books of your choice will be mailed to you upon receipt of the required items (a, b, c) as listed above. Thank you for your support and participation! 📚📝
As we approach our sixth summer reading cohort, Coloring It With Reading, we reflect on the meaningful progress we've made over the years.
In Summer 2020, we launched with 25 enthusiastic young readers, eager to share their stories under the theme Imagine Your Story. It marked the beginning of our mission to foster a love of reading and build home libraries.
In 2021, another group of 25 children found their voices through the empowering theme Reading is a Superpower. The program’s success inspired donors and supporters, resulting in increased funding and momentum for growth.
By 2022, this support fueled the expansion to our third cohort of 50 readers under the theme Oceans of Possibilities. The impact was so profound that in 2023, the program grew to include 75 readers across 21 states under the banner All Together Now.
In 2024, enthusiasm soared. With broader visibility and growing financial support, we served 80 students—despite a waitlist of 25.
Though 2025 brought financial challenges amid national political shifts, our faithful supporters remained unwavering. Despite reduced funding, we can proudly continue our mission to Color Our World With Reading with 24 returning readers in our sixth year of Summer Reading Rewards!
In just four weeks, we help transform children’s reading habits—by reading with them. While PSCF isn’t alone in distributing books to address the literacy crisis, our approach sets us apart: we commit four weeks each summer to ensure the books we give are read and enjoyed—not forgotten in a drawer or tossed away.
At PSCF, we believe real change begins with meaningful engagement. That’s why we don’t just hand out books—we share stories, spark joy, and cultivate a lifelong love of reading.
Who says parents don’t understand?🙃
At PSCF, we proudly affirm that our parents do more than understand—they get it. They recognize the critical importance of reading and, even more significantly, they understand that their active engagement in their children’s reading journey directly impacts academic success.
Our parents are not only supportive—they’re committed. For four weeks, they devote time and energy to transforming their children’s reading habits. Yes, they work, cook, clean, shop, and do whatever it takes to care for their families—but they also know that reading isn’t just fundamental; it’s essential.
We understand the challenges—books can be costly, time is limited, and motivating young readers takes heart. That’s why PSCF steps in to shoulder the load: we purchase the books, provide a reading schedule, and offer incentives to celebrate progress.
Our mission is clear: to make reading a consistent part of children’s lives—transforming it from a task into a lifestyle. We believe that every book read is a stepping stone toward success and a barrier against negative outcomes, including the school-to-prison pipeline.
We are proud of our parents—the champions who truly understand.
Does It Really Take a Village? 🛖
Yes, it truly does. Human beings are inherently social, learning primarily through sight and sound. Children, in particular, are natural imitators—eager sponges who seek validation and guidance to ensure they’re on the right path. This is why the environment and the people surrounding a child from birth to age five play a crucial role in shaping their development.
At the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation, we are fortunate to work with parents who understand the power of a collective effort. During our four-week Summer Reading Rewards Program, the energy is palpable. Entire families—parents, siblings, and grandparents—embrace the role of reading buddies, sparking joy and comprehension in young readers. Even babysitters join in, helping to maintain the momentum.
Research shows that habits are formed through consistency—typically within 18 consecutive days. Our program is designed to harness that science, transforming reading from a task into a lifelong habit, and ultimately, a lifestyle.
Who says you can’t find joy in reading? Joy means being happy, relaxed, and letting your imagination run free.
The Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation (PSCF) is on a mission to spark that joy by turning reading into a lifestyle. Each summer, PSCF hosts a four-week virtual book club designed to foster shared and guided reading experiences. During this time, children are paired with their parents as reading buddies and explore a diverse selection of texts provided by the foundation.
The goal? To make reading a fun, everyday habit—whether that’s perched in a tree with a book or pausing at the park between slides. PSCF creates space for creative and collaborative engagement, making books leap off the shelves and come alive in the hearts and minds of young readers.
At PSCF, we believe reading can—and should—happen anywhere. There truly is joy in reading.
Your generous donations empower our organization to craft delightful reading experiences and offer books and other gifts to the children we serve. As a rapidly growing 501(c)(3) non-profit ( EIN 84 2351249) operating on a modest budget, your contribution will directly impact our young learners. Your donation will enable us to provide essential school supplies, fresh uniforms, engaging books, nourishing food baskets, and exciting special programs.
We sincerely appreciate your invaluable support!
