Dallas, TX – [December 12, 2023] – Whataburger, in partnership with the Dallas Education Foundation, has taken a significant step in promoting literacy and educational growth by funding the installation of a new book vending machine at Dallas ISD’s Hotchkiss Elementary School. This initiative is part of Whataburger’s commitment to empowering students through the Whataburger Feeding Student Success program.
“We know that putting books into the hands and homes of students is a game changer,” says Emily Davis, Development and Grants Manager at the Dallas Education Foundation. “This book vending machine not only makes books accessible, but it also empowers our students to select a culturally relevant book that resonates with their interests and experiences. We are grateful to Whataburger for their continued partnership and support of Dallas ISD students.”
Principal Maria Puentemejia of Hotchkiss Elementary expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are thrilled to have the support of Whataburger and the Dallas Education Foundation in our mission to enhance literacy. Having a book vending machine on campus is like having a treasure chest for our students – every book they take home is a seed planted for their future success. It’s initiatives like these that truly enrich our educational programs and ignite a lifelong passion for reading in our students.”
The book vending machine is an innovative approach to encourage reading among young students. It allows children to choose books that they find engaging and culturally significant, fostering a love for reading and learning. By providing this resource, Whataburger and the Dallas Education Foundation are making a tangible difference in the lives of students at Hotchkiss Elementary School.
Travis Hill from Whataburger adds, “At Whataburger, we believe in the transformative power of education and are committed to supporting our communities in meaningful ways. Through Whataburger Feeding Student Success, we’re dedicated to addressing challenges like food insecurity and educational barriers. Our partnership with the Dallas Education Foundation at Hotchkiss Elementary School is a reflection of this commitment, and we’re proud to be a part of this initiative.”
About Whataburger Feeding Student Success
Whataburger celebrates the potential of all students and the power of education through Whataburger Feeding Student Success. The program focuses our charitable giving at the intersection of food insecurity and education through college resource rooms, scholarships, and community philanthropy.
Since launching the program in 2020, we’ve given more than $5 million to support communities and students in need.
About Dallas Education Foundation
The Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) is a registered 501(c)(3) and serves as the direct and designated philanthropic partner of Dallas ISD. With a mission to inspire community investment to accelerate student success, our vision is a galvanized community whose resources support the transformative work that makes Dallas ISD the preferred choice for families across North Texas.
Aligning with the district’s strategic initiatives, DEF has granted more than $5 million over the last three years for the benefit of our Dallas ISD students, teachers, and schools, focusing on economic mobility by supporting early learning, advancing literacy, driving post-secondary success, and catalyzing our educators. To learn more, go to https://dallasedfound.org and follow us @dallasedfound on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
About Dallas ISD
The Dallas Independent School District is continually preparing its more than 141,000 students for college or a career. The district offers a competitive mix of innovative programs, choice programs and instructional initiatives that support the increased academic achievement and the social and emotional development of its students. To learn more, visit www.dallasisd.org.
