Who:  Reach Out and Read supports our youngest patients, from birth to 5 years, and their families.

What:  Pediatricians start each visit by giving children a new book to take home, discussing with caregivers the benefits of reading, and modeling positive reading interactions with their children.

When:  Well‑child visits.

Where:  Currently in Albany, Corvallis and Lebanon and expanding to Newport and Lincoln City.

Why: 

• Improves language ability in young children.
• Increases likelihood that families will attend well‑child checkups, resulting in more children receiving vaccinations on schedule.
• Reduces maternal depression, particularly among young, single mothers.
• Lessens stress and reduces burnout among pediatric clinicians.

Campaign Goal:  $150,000.

Lead Foundations:  All Samaritan foundations.