Friday, July 4, 2008

SAVANNAH- Ms. Bee’s Summer Camp kicked-off this week for more than 50 special needs children in Savannah Chatham County. The camp is similar to summer school, the kids practice motor skills, reading, and arts and crafts.

This year however, the camp's attendance has been cut in half due to some transportation issues. In past years, the Savannah Chatham County School District has let this non-profit organization borrow the buses and building, however this year transportation was not in the budget and that has taken it's toll on attendance.

Without any transportation, the Executive Director of the camp, Mary Poncy said, “The kids often end up staying home and their brothers and sisters who will play babysitter when they are not qualified to babysit a special needs child.” 

Veta Beard, the financial coordinator for the camp said, “I spoke to a parent this morning and she doesn't have money for gas to get her children here.,We need the buses."

The camp is great for the kids and it gives the parents a break. “A lot of times it's a 24/7 job to watch a child with special needs and you need that break," said Poncy.

So, although the camp struggles to get their campers to their site everyday, they are having a great time and always miss all the kids at the end of the summer.

For more information or to help this camp head to www.msbees.com