May 16, 2014

TriHealth Young Professionals unveiled the TriHealth Nook for Books on Wednesday, May 14 at the Santa Maria Community Services Center.

The group assembled a book shelf and table with chairs, and collected more than 800 books for readers 7 years old and younger.

"We are so thankful to the staff of TriHealth for their support in creating a book nook, here at Santa Maria, to encourage literacy among our families," says Laura Brinson M.Ed., wellness program director at Santa Maria Community Services.

"This area helps us fulfill our mission of empowering Greater Price Hill families as they achieve sustainable health, housing, and family life."

Kids Enjoy 'Wild About Reading' Block Party

A "Wild About Reading" Block Party followed the ribbon-cutting ceremony and included food, drinks, children's games, book readings and guest appearances from Gapper, of the Cincinnati Reds, and Who Dey, of the Cincinnati Bengals.

"The ceremony was a way for our group to spend time at the Center and introduce the Book Nook to the Santa Maria Community," explains Rachael Hammond, volunteer manager for TriHealth Young Professionals. "This helps to strengthen our previously established relationship between Santa Maria and TriHealth. We're excited to begin the monthly reading program, which starts June 5 and takes place on the first Thursday of the month through October."

About Santa Maria

The Santa Maria Community Services Center, located in East Price Hill, serves more than 4,000 individuals a year in the Price Hill and Sedamsville-Riverside area, offering educational programs tied to affordable housing, health and wellness and youth development and education.

For more information about Santa Maria Community Services, visit santamaria-cincy.org.