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MIDFLORIDA Credit Union’s Gift of Reading program marks 19 years of inspiring young readers

LAKELAND, FL (October 30, 2024) — MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Gift of Reading program, marking its 19th year as one of the organization’s most impactful community initiatives. This year, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union employees will be visiting a record-breaking 284 schools across 18 counties to reach over 29,000 students with the joy of reading. Each child will receive a personal copy of Monsters Love Cupcakes, a bright and playful rhyming book that highlights the values of collaboration and sharing.

The Gift of Reading program embodies MIDFLORIDA’s commitment to supporting local communities beyond traditional banking services, showcasing a deep investment in the future of its youngest residents. Chief of Retail Vanessa Hernandez expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Our employees are passionate about being in the communities we serve and spending meaningful time with the youth. Each visit not only fosters a love for reading but strengthens the bond between our credit union and the families we proudly serve.”

The response to this year’s Gift of Reading program has been so overwhelming that MIDFLORIDA has added a second reading day in May 2025 to ensure even more children experience the joy of reading.

This year’s book selection, Monsters Love Cupcakes, is sure to bring smiles to young readers and their families alike. The story’s silliness and positive message make it an ideal tool for engaging children, while giving them a keepsake to enjoy with their loved ones at home. By bringing the joy of books into so many homes, MIDFLORIDA aims to foster lifelong readers and promote family togetherness through the love of storytelling.

For more information about MIDFLORIDA’s Gift of Reading program or to learn about other community initiatives, please visit MIDFLORIDA.com or contact GiftofReading@midflorida.com.

About MIDFLORIDA Credit Union

MIDFLORIDA is a state-chartered financial institution headquartered in Lakeland, Florida. With more than $8 billion in assets, the credit union serves more than 472,000 members through its network of branches, ATMs, and website, midflorida.com. MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is open for membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school within its Florida service area, which spans from coast to coast.