Temple University’s Department of Public Safety (TUDPS) is helping Tree House Books turn the page on an unfortunate chapter in the literacy hub’s story.  
 
Over Christmas, a massive water leak was discovered that destroyed thousands of books inside the giving library and left extensive water damage throughout the building, which is located near Temple in North Philadelphia.   
 
When Temple Police Officer Leroy Wimberly heard about the damage, he immediately stepped up to help. 
 
“Tree House Books has been a pillar of the North Philadelphia community for 20 years, providing free books to children. They’re also our neighbors. So I was eager to help in any way I could,” Wimberly said. 
 
Wimberly got together his team from TUDPS’ engagement unit and obtained 2,000 children’s books from Toys for Tots to donate to Tree House Books. 
 
“It was so unfortunate to see the damage caused by the water leak. So Temple University’s Department of Public Safety worked to again lift up and support our Philadelphia community.” said Jennifer Griffin, chief of police and vice president for public safety. “It’s our hope that these books help the youngest members of our community foster a love for reading.” 
 
Emma Goldstein, Tree House Books’ donations manager, said they welcomed the generous donation from Temple. 
 
“We are fortunate to have great community partners like Temple’s Department of Public Safety. This donation will make a real difference to so many children,” Goldstein said.  
 
“Temple University’s Department of Public Safety is here for the North Philadelphia community just as much as we’re here for the Temple community,” said Temple Police Captain James Hennigan.  
 
Temple Police Captain Enoch McCoy echoed Hennigan’s sentiment: “Temple police officers work hard every day to make the North Philadelphia community a safer place to live, work and learn for everybody. We’re proud to serve our community.”