“The International Rescue Committee in Dallas provides opportunities for refugees and newcomer families to thrive in North Texas. The IRC works with government bodies, civil society actors, and local volunteers to help these individuals to survive, recover and rebuild their lives. Since opening its doors in 1975, our agency has resettled over 26,000 refugees and provided life-changing services to thousands more in the Lone Star State.”

Funding from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation will go directly to our ELI (English Language Instruction) and VESL (Vocational ESL) programs to support access to and delivery of Vocational English and Literacy programming. These funds will address key barriers to participation, such as the purchase of computers and technology for use across both programs. ELI and VESL operate via a hybrid instructional model, with at least 50% of classes delivered online or fully virtual. Many of our clients currently rely on mobile phones to attend virtual classes, which limits their ability to view materials and engage fully in instruction. Funds will go towards providing appropriate devices to ensure our clients can consistently access instruction, actively participate, and continue progressing in the program. 

“Since the Foundation’s inception in 1993, our focus has remained on making meaningful investments in students, teachers, and the organizations that support literacy and learning at every stage of life,” said Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. “We are grateful for the impact teachers and educators make every day and are excited to have another record setting year of helping expand literacy access for learners of all ages. These funds will help educators enhance their instruction and create opportunities that help empower students to reach their full potential.”

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports organizations that increase access to educational programming, stimulate and enable innovation in the delivery of educational instruction and inspire a love of reading. Each year, DGLF awards funds to nonprofit organizations, schools, and libraries within a 15-mile radius of a Dollar General store or distribution center to support adult, family, summer and youth literacy programs. The Foundation also offers a student referral program for individuals interested in learning how to read, speak English, or prepare for the high school equivalency exam.  Referrals to a local organization that provides free literacy services are available online here or through referral cards found in the Learn to Read brochures that are available at the cash register of every Dollar General store.

The Foundation plans to launch its seventh annual The Yellow Glasses Project campaign on July 20, 2026, in which customers can purchase yellow sunglasses at Dollar General stores for $2 each to benefit the DGLF. 

 

About the Dollar General Literacy Foundation

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation is proud to support initiatives that help others improve their lives through literacy and education. Since 1993, the Foundation has awarded more than $292 million in grants to nonprofit organizations, helping more than 25 million individuals take their first steps toward literacy, a general education diploma or English proficiency. Each year, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation provides financial support to schools, nonprofit organizations and libraries within a 15-mile radius of Dollar General stores and distribution centers. To learn more about the Dollar General Literacy Foundation or apply for a literacy grant, visit www.dgliteracy.org.