Foellinger Foundation Awards $1M Grant to Library Program

The Allen County Public Library Foundation has received a $1 million grant from the Fort Wayne-based Foellinger Foundation to support a summer learning program for youth.

The grant provides three years of financial support for the Summer Learning Program, which is offered at all library branches in Allen County.

The library said the program helps maintain academic skills for young people who are most at risk when schools are not in session during the summer months.

The program, which serves approximately 10,000 youth annually, has taken on a virtual format this summer with curbside services at the branch locations.

The library plans in the coming years to continue to expand its offerings to children and youth who participate in the free summer lunch program by encouraging them to explore reading at the library branch located nearest to their home.

This year’s gift brings the foundation’s total investment in the program $5.7 million since 1994.