Vineland, NJ (KYW Newsradio) — Cumberland and Salem counties are receiving $1 million to fund free summer camps and other programs to prevent violence.
Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae says teaching life skills will be a big part of this effort.
“And how do you do that? You provide youth with positive mentors, loving examples and correction through pro-social activities, outlets to share their feelings.”
Senator Bob Menendez says there was a very competitive bid process for the grant, and lawmakers in Washington decided this was among the best uses of the money because they will serve more than 45,000 New Jerseyans – many of them, children who live below the poverty line in areas with high crime rates.
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“All told, we’re talking about providing more than 30,000 hours of supportive services to youth ages 10 to 24,” Menendez said. “They aren’t just talking about making a difference for local children. They are taking action to let them be kids for the summer.”
Violent crime in Cumberland County is twice as high as the New Jersey average, with 421 incidents per 100,000 residents.
“Now more than ever, we have to work together to disrupt the behaviors and the patterns that lead to violence in our midst,” Webb-McRae added.