LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Umpqua Bank Charitable Foundation announced an Impact Grant for $125,000 to United Way of the Wine Country for its “Schools of Hope” program.

Through the foundation's $125,000 grant, United Way of the Wine Country will expand Schools of Hope, a reading program that aims to increase the percentage of third grade students reading at grade level.

The grant will bring the program to nine additional schools in Lake and Mendocino counties, where only 23 percent of all third graders read proficiently and more than 80 percent are economically disadvantaged.

Students in the program have improved their reading fluency by 30 to 50 percent more than students at non-participating schools.

Umpqua Bank officials said the organization recognizes the connection between educational success and economic prosperity.

"As a community bank, we are committed to investing in the communities we serve,” said Nicole Stein, vice president of community responsibility at Umpqua Bank. “We believe we have an obligation to give back in meaningful ways, particularly to help make a difference in the lives of children and families. Through the continuation of our Impact Grants, we strive to further this commitment with larger, multi-year partnerships that remove barriers and give children the tools they need to be successful.”

Recipients of Impact Grants create opportunities for early childhood and K-12 youth that enhance the educational experience, promote well-being and inspire students to reach their full potential.

The grants are focused on helping to close the achievement gap for children, particularly those in poverty who are traditionally underserved.

The Umpqua Bank Charitable Foundation was initially funded with $10 million in 2014.

It also funds Umpqua’s ongoing Community Giving grants – typically between $2,500 and $10,000 – to organizations focused on youth development and education, community development and arts access. Grants are available to nonprofit organizations throughout California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

Organizations can submit an application at www.umpquabank.com/communitygiving .

For more information about the Impact Grant recipients, visit www.umpquabank.com/impactgrants .