Books • Meals • Dignity

Where reading meets compassion — bringing stories and warm meals to neighbors in need.

Imagine Reading Inc fosters a culture of reading while serving people experiencing homelessness and low-income families. We host free reading circles, distribute books, and provide nutritious meals — all in one welcoming space.

Volunteer / Donate Explore Programs
200+ / mo
Meals served
Mobile
Pop-up book shelf
Community
Park & shelter events

What we believe

Knowledge and kindness transform lives. Every page shared and every hot meal served is an invitation to hope, dignity, and belonging.

Vision

A compassionate community where everyone — regardless of housing or income — can access stories, ideas, and the warmth of a shared table.

Mission

  • Host free, public reading circles in parks, community centers, and shelters.
  • Provide hot meals alongside reading activities for people in need.
  • Operate a mobile book shelf to share donated titles wherever people gather.
  • Build spaces for listening, respect, and positive connection.

Core Programs

Books for Everyone

Free reading circles in parks, community hubs, and shelters — welcoming children and adults to read, listen, and share.

  • Weekly outdoor reading circles in warm seasons.
  • Give-away tables with donated books.
  • Story-sharing to build confidence and connection.

Knowledge Meals

Nutritious hot meals served with dignity — often paired with take-home books and resource lists.

  • 200+ hot meals served each month.
  • Meal prep with local volunteers and partner kitchens.
  • Respect-first service model: names, eye contact, choice.

Featured Event 2026: "Day of Knowledge & Care"

A three-day community gathering uniting books, meals, and music to uplift neighbors facing hardship.

June 12–14, 2026

Larchmont Village Park, New York

Free and open to all. No registration required.

Goals

  • Give away 1,000 free books to low-income families, unhoused neighbors, and children.
  • Serve 600 hot meals per day across three days.
  • Host community readings with 20+ volunteers & local authors.
  • Invite ongoing donations of books, essentials, and volunteer time.

Anticipated Impact

  • 150+ volunteers activated over the event weekend.
  • Nearly 2,000 participants engaged with reading circles and meals.
  • Fundraise $15,000 to sustain Knowledge Meals into 2027.

Be part of the story

Volunteer, donate books or essentials, or help prep and serve meals. Your time and care make a real difference.

Contact Us