In 2008, KPMG has contributed $250,000 and sponsored the distribution of more than 200,000 brand new books to children from low-income families nationwide.

First Book is teaming with KPMG's Family for Literacy, an initiative that organizes volunteers to fund the purchase of books, conduct reading programs in schools, and work with existing literacy programs to distribute books supplied by First Book. The program initially launched in seven key cities in 2008, including Denver, CO, Minneapolis, MN, Washington DC / Tysons Corner, VA, Short Hills, NJ, Montvale, NJ, Stamford, CT, and Houston, TX.

KPMG's Family for Literacy participants will also reach out through their own professional and personal networks to register existing community literacy programs with First Book, enabling these groups to gain permanent access to a steady stream of new books for the children they serve.

"Encouraging children to read is absolutely crucial to their development and future learning potential," said Timothy P. Flynn, chairman and CEO of KPMG LLP. "First Book is an excellent organization with a compelling mission and a 15-year record of accomplishment. Together we can open new worlds of possibility for children who need books in their lives," said Flynn.