Kathy Ireland and Dollar General Deliver $50,000 Literacy Surprise

Supermodel and entrepreneur Kathy Ireland partnered with Dollar General to surprise a Tennessee elementary school. They awarded a $50,000 grant to Andrew Jackson Elementary in Old Hickory. The event was part of Dollar General’s longstanding Reading Revolution program.

The donation aims to boost literacy and foster a love of reading. Students and staff also received hundreds of pillows, blankets, and art supplies. This initiative highlights a growing corporate focus on supporting public education at the local level.

More Than Money: A Full Sensory Experience

The grant provides essential funding for books and technology. But the day was about creating a memorable experience. According to a report by Drug Store News, students received 500 co-branded pillows and blankets from Ireland’s exclusive home collection.

They also got over 575 Crayola packs for creative expression. Ireland personally presented a new reading chair to the school. Teachers and staff were not forgotten, receiving gift cards to support their efforts.

A Partnership Rooted in Community Impact

Dollar General’s Reading Revolution program is a major commitment. It has awarded over $5 million to 137 schools since 2013. The program directly addresses resource gaps in literacy education.

Denine Torr, Dollar General’s VP of philanthropy, emphasized the goal. She said the event was meant to ignite a lifelong love of reading. The partnership with Ireland, who is also Crayola’s chief creative ambassador, adds a powerful creative voice.

Ireland reflected on the deeper purpose of the donation. “Reading opens doors to dreams, and dreams open doors to the future,” she stated. Her collaboration with Dollar General began with a home collection launch in mid-2025.

This joint effort demonstrates how corporate and philanthropic missions can align for genuine community impact. The $50,000 donation provides critical resources, while the partnership itself inspires students to see a brighter future for themselves.

Thought you’d like to know-

How much did Dollar General and Kathy Ireland donate?

They awarded a $50,000 grant to Andrew Jackson Elementary School. The funds are part of the Dollar General Reading Revolution program. This money will buy books, technology, and other learning supplies.

What other gifts did the students receive?

Students received 500 co-branded pillows and blankets from Kathy Ireland’s collection. They also got more than 575 packs of Crayola products. A new reading chair was also donated to the school.

What is Dollar General’s Reading Revolution?

It is the company’s national literacy initiative. The program has donated over $5 million since 2013. It supports schools and non-profits focused on reading and education.

What is Kathy Ireland’s role with Crayola?

Kathy Ireland serves as the chief creative ambassador for Crayola. In this role, she helps promote creativity and self-expression in children. She connects this mission directly to the importance of literacy.

Where can I find Kathy Ireland’s home collection?

Her ‘ki by kathy ireland’ home collection is available at Dollar General stores. The line includes bedding and throws. It is designed to be both affordable and stylish for families.