LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Atmos Energy and Covenant Children\u2019s staff dedicated a new book vending machine at the hospital.<\/p>\n
The donation is part of Atmos\u2019 \u201cFueling Safe and Thriving Communities\u201d initiative to invest in educational, literacy, energy assistance and food security resources across the 1,400 communities it serves.<\/p>\n
The machine is designed to make it easier for kids to access books. It can be used as a reward system for good grades, attendance or behavior.<\/p>\n
Rather than dispensing soft drinks or snacks, the vending machine is stocked with hundreds of books that students can take home after earning a token to make their selection.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are committed to improving the early childhood literacy success of students in Lubbock and all communities where our employees live and work,\u201d said Hantz, Atmos Energy public affairs manager. \u201cAtmos Energy is honored to donate a book vending machine to Covenant Children\u2019s Hospital of Lubbock and offer students a unique reading incentive.\u201d<\/p>\n
Covenant Children\u2019s said patients from West Texas to eastern New Mexico will now have access to books through the machine.<\/p>\n
\u201cReading opens the door to a lifetime of learning and teaches our minds about the world around us,\u201d said Jessica Marlar, senior philanthropy officer at Covenant Children\u2019s. \u201cWe are proud to be part of a true community partnership that invests significantly in literacy, children and their future.\u201d<\/p>\n
The ceremonial ribbon cutting took place in the lobby of Covenant Children\u2019s at 4002 24th St.<\/p>\n
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