Bookworms is a joint community/church initiative run in partnership between St Paul’s South Coogee and Anglicare.
Bookworms aims to improve the literacy of K-6 children living in public housing in the South Coogee area. Volunteers give each child one-to-one reading time to improve their confidence when reading. We play games that develop motor skills and mental agility including, indoor bowls and board games like 4-in-a-Row. As the children play games, share afternoon tea and chat with the volunteers, they also have a chance to improve their social skills.
We have developed strong, long-term relationships with the families of the children who attend the Bookworm’s program, who live in our local social housing area. Some of these families now attend our Friday youth group and church services. Our small group of volunteers have worked hard to build these trusting relationships in a safe and friendly environment.