A reading program that began giving free books to poor children when Lyndon B. Johnson was president may be forced to compete for money next year under President Bush's education budget.
Fundamental supporters say that's what their program does best.
It's really quite magical. In fact, former first lady Barbara Bush, the president's mother, is listed on the program's National Advisory Council. Laura Bush, herself a strong literacy advocate, is a former adviser, an aide said. The national organization provides about 75 percent of money for most local chapters, but gives 100 percent to programs for especially needy children, such as migrant workers and those in homeless shelters. Supporters have sent thousands of letters and e-mails to Congress, hoping lawmakers restore the funding, Trueheart said.