The Fall River Housing Authority officially opened a resident reading center at the Heritage Heights housing development on Green Street on July 10, 2009. Volunteer Diane McDonald spent several months gathering donations of books, especially ones directed to children, and bookshelves built by other volunteers. "People have been very generous," said McDonald describing the process of collecting donated items. The bookshelves were build by Housing Authority carpenter Ron Valois. Residents helped to helped to shelve and sort the books. Children will be able to read the books in the community room or check them out to read at home. Those that read the most books this summer will be eligible for prizes. Click here for the Herald News article about the event. For more information about the project, contact Family and Youth Services Director Joseph DaSilva at 508-675-3527.
 

(Top row, left and right) Thirteen-year-old Anthony Colon, eight-year-old Terrance Bernard and four-year-old Charles Santos enjoy the refreshments and balloon provided for residents at the reception. (Top row, right) Anthony Colon picks out his favorite book, The Perfect Tribute, about Abraham Lincoln. (Middle row, left) Senior property manager Debra Morrisette points out the advantage of having reading materials available to children in the housing development before introducing Diane McDonald. (Middle row, center) Three-year-old Angeli Perez enjoys a cupcake with her mother Rosa at the event. (Middle row, right) Volunteer Diane McDonald talks about the value of reading for children and adults. (Bottom row, left) Anthony watches as Terrance high-fives Alex Pedroza. (Bottom row, center) Diane McDonald looks on as Heritage Heights resident Crystal Freitas looks over a book recommended by Heritage Heights property manager Valerie Oliveira. (Bottom row, right) Housing Authority executive assistant Martha Gallagher and Housing Authority executive director Tom Collins looks over a book selected by Housing Authority deputy director Dan McDonald.