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Kershaw County using American Rescue Plan funds to create programs for kids in a rural community

The $63,000 will be used to make sure students are in the classroom

CAMDEN, S.C. — Behind closed doors at the former Baron DeKalb Elementary School is a new space called the Kirkland Community Center.

Most rooms still sit vacant, with memories of the past painted on the walls. But one room is full of new life as a space to keep students busy during their time away from their regular classrooms.

"It was kinda mind-boggling because you see things close, and you see them get abandoned, and then oftentimes you see it get developed, and there is not a memory of what's taken place there," said Kirkland Community Center's Millie Smith. 

Smith has helped bring this summer's Kershaw County leadership camp to light.

"This character camp came to be something that would children from grades six through eight to understand how to be self-motivated, self-disciplined, and to have hopes and dreams - and that's OK - and have vision," she said. 

The camp was made possible with support from Kershaw County which allocated $63,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, allowing them to develop two years' worth of programs.

Smith said that they are wrapping up their first camp and looking to offer more fun activities throughout the year.

"We found that during this time, there is a need for all age levels," Smith said. "So, hopefully, next time can do a little bit older and a little bit younger."

Noelle Bradshaw, whose son is participating in the camp, said she is excited about his learning, from budgeting skills to goal-setting. 

"All of the positive things he's been influenced to since he's been there, very pleased with the program," Bradshaw said.

Smith said they also plan to get basketball and volleyball equipment with the money.

Kershaw County also used $6 million in ARPA funds for recreation and $100,000 for the arts center.

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