FUNDS FROM YELL ARE GIVEN TO GROUPS

Local agencies with programs designed to help young people received grant money Wednesday from proceeds of the YELL for Newspapers campaign.

In September, volunteers hit the streets to sell a special edition of the Southeast Missourian and the Jackson Cash-Book Journal. Proceeds from sales of those newspapers goes to promote Youth, Education, Literacy and Learning.

Half the money raised through YELL, about $9,700, was given to the Southeast Missourian's Newspapers In Education program.

The other half was distributed to seven agencies in the form of grants. The Area Wide United Way coordinates the selection and distribution of the funds.

Jackson Public Library, $600, to set up a new section in the library encouraging adult literacy. The new books have high interest for adults but low reading levels.

Cape Girardeau Public Library, $2,500, to set up a summer RIF (Reading is Fundamental) program for children in seventh through tenth grades.

Easter Seals, $2,500, for a computer resource center to encourage pre-reading skills for children ages birth to 6 years.

Cape Girardeau Area Vocational-Technical School, $3000, to purchase a Language Master machine. The equipment includes printed words, audio sound and capability to tape record the student reading. Software will also be purchased to help improve writing skills.

Cape Civic Center, $1,000, to purchase a computer and assist with the Civic Center's GED and tutoring programs.

American Red Cross, $310, to fund first aid training for young people.

Lutheran Family and Children's Services, $713, to provide one-to-one counseling on teen pregnancy issues.