When the Journal launched its Turlock 20 in 2020 volunteer campaign in January, we planned on hosting four events in the coming months to give Turlockers a chance to put their community service pledges into action. Then came the coronavirus. Our plans were suddenly canceled, along with all others across the country.

It took a few weeks, but we have regrouped and now have a socially distant volunteer effort underway. The Journal has partnered with the Turlock Unified School District to provide local students with new books to read during in-home learning times — or just for fun.

Here's how you can help:

— Order a new book from your favorite online book seller: Scholastic Books, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, etc. Books are needed for grade levels from kindergarten through sixth grade.

— Have the new book shipped to the Turlock Journal office, 121 S. Center St. 2nd Floor, Turlock, CA 95380. All books must be received by May 19, 2020.

The Turlock Journal will distribute the new books to families picking up a free lunch from 10 a.m. to noon May 20 at Wakefield Elementary School, Dutcher Middle School and Pitman High School.

This is a great way to volunteer through giving, while practicing social distancing. It’s also an opportunity to share your favorite book as a youth with the next generation of readers.

To take the Turlock 20 in 2020 challenge — pledging to volunteer 20 hours of community service through the year — visit Turlock20in2020.com.

For more information on the book drive or Turlock 20 in 2020, email khacker@turlockjournal.com or call 209-634-9141.