KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – One of the strategies the City of Kalamazoo has implemented to decrease crime is to provide programs for the community’s school aged children during summer break.
This year, thanks to The Foundation for Excellence and American Rescue Plan Act relief money, they were able to put together their largest summer program yet. The City Commission received a report on a portion of the plan last week.
The City Parks Department put together five summer camp programs scattered around the city. Activities Director Pete Aerts says it not only provided a safe summer for over 300 children, but jobs for about 30 teens who worked as camp counselors.
The City also worked with K-RESA to provide summer jobs and internships for 14 to 21-year olds. K-RESA’s Paige Daniels says they did more than just provide a paycheck, they got them thinking about their careers, by providing tours, career workshops, and an introduction to their options.
City Commissioner Chris Preadel says those were just a portion of the total summer effort, which also included Kydnet’s summer offering that enlisted the aid of 31 local agency programs, and the Department of Public Safety’s summer sports leagues. A total of $2.1-million was spent on the effort.
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