Authors Spearhead Hurricane Relief

In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, members of the children’s book community—including teachers and literacy activists—have rallied in support of students and educators. A number of authors have also organized efforts to provide books, clothes, and other basic-needs items to children and families affected by the storm.

Back in 2012, author Kate Messner launched KidLit Cares, an online talent auction of children’s book art and other items, in response to Hurricane Sandy. The first auction brought in more than $35,000. Messner recently reprised the initiative when she learned of the devastation caused by Harvey. “Like so many people, I watched the news about Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath and was absolutely heartbroken to see so many families in crisis. The scope of that storm was devastating, and it hit vulnerable populations the hardest. I wanted to do something and knew that I wasn’t alone,” she said.

On August 27, Messner posted a call on her blog, inviting authors, illustrators, and children’s publishing professionals to donate Skype visits, artwork, and other “big-ticket items.” She quickly rounded up participants, saying, “People in the children’s literature community responded in a big way. Our donors and bidders were amazing and generous, and people were just great about helping out—especially Linda Sue Park, who logged all of our donation receipts and kept track of things so that we could offer people a choice of where to donate.”

Promotion for the auction took place entirely on social media, which Messner believes allowed for timely action. “I have days when I need a break from Facebook and Twitter, but when you truly need to rally people for a good cause, there’s nothing like those platforms to get the word out. In my opinion, that’s social media at its very best.”

The auction—which included more than 200 items—brought in more than $94,000 for the American Red Cross and Global Giving Hurricane Harvey. Two anonymous donors from the children’s book world made a final donation, bringing the total to $100,000.
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