Bethany Lutheran Church in Port Orchard is making strides in early childhood literacy with its “Bedtime Books at Bethany” program.

The program aims to bring families together over reading. Launched in 2014 as part of a Kitsap County-wide summer reading initiative, the program has grown into a community event, fostering connections between families and church members.

The church’s Early Learning Center offers storytime sessions every Wednesday evening for six weeks in summer, providing families with two free books at each event. The gatherings have transformed from indoor settings to parking lot sessions, allowing parents to sit with children in the comfort of their own vehicles.

“We want families to feel at home here,” said Melissa Pittenger, the program’s lead. “By holding it outdoors, we can welcome everyone, especially those with special needs who might find crowded spaces overwhelming.”

One parent shared a touching story of her daughter, who has autism and was unable to participate in typical community events due to sensory sensitivities. The unique format allowed her to stay in the safety of her car while still experiencing the joy of storytime and songs.

“Her mother told us it was the first place they could go as a family and feel included,” Pittenger said. “Over time, her daughter became more comfortable and eventually joined other events like Sunday school.”

Since its inception, “Bedtime Books at Bethany” has expanded to include special events for Patriot Day, Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter, with books tailored to each occasion. First responders and local organizations frequently participate, connecting families with their community heroes in a relaxed setting.

The program has also seen heartwarming responses from families. “We’ve had parents tell us that their children’s reading skills improved significantly after a summer with us,” Pittenger said. “For one child struggling with literacy, our program made a huge difference.”