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Frequently Asked Questions
Thanks for your interest in Shop for Public Schools. To help you learn more, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the program. Of course, if your question isn’t answered below, please contact us by clicking here.
Shop for Public Schools is an annual event that raises critical funds for New York City public school libraries. For one week every fall, New Yorkers can shop at participating retailers in all five boroughs, and help support our city’s public schools.
Shop for Public Schools runs from October 1 to October 8, 2008.
Funds raised during Shop for Public Schools week support the Library REACH (Revitalizing Education for Adolescents and Children) grant program. Library REACH grants help public school librarians purchase books, furniture, technology, and other resources to inspire a love of reading in their students. To date, 186 schools have received Library REACH grants from The Fund for Public Schools.
The Fund for Public Schools is the nonprofit organization dedicated to improving New York City’s public schools by attracting private investment in school reform and encouraging greater involvement by all New Yorkers in the education of our children.
The Fund strengthens the New York City Department of Education’s relationship with the private sector, and helps businesses create partnerships and programs that support city schools. The Fund for Public Schools has raised more than $230 million in private funds from foundations, corporations, and individuals, becoming a nationally-recognized model in facilitating strong public-private partnerships that support reform in public education.
Shop for Public Schools was developed in 2004, when several New York City retailers approached Caroline Kennedy, Vice-Chair of The Fund for Public Schools, about getting involved to support our public schools. To date, The Fund has raised approximately $3.5 million in support of library improvements. Shop for Public Schools is one key part of The Fund’s larger fundraising efforts for public school libraries.
Shop for Public Schools includes retailers of all sizes, from small, neighborhood businesses to major chains with multiple locations. Merchants donate a percentage of sales during the week of Shop for Public Schools, or a flat amount pledged in advance. Some retailers also create special promotions and in-store events to benefit The Fund.
If you would like to involve your business in Shop for Public Schools sign up for our newsletter at left or please contact us by clicking here.
