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Community Corner

Free Chicago Heights Summer Camp Aims to Keep Kids Moving

Schools Out Safe Summer Camp is held daily at Sesto Park.

Almost 300 children showed up Tuesday at to attend a free camp that runs until August 19th.

saw the need for children to keep busy during the summer months.  and his cousin Renee Hawthorne, along with other volunteers, are helping to make a difference in children's lives. 

"We are operating a camp with zero funding and with the help of some dedicated volunteers that want better for the children in our community," Mosby said.

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The goal is to have a S.M.A.R.T. camp, which stands for Science/Sports, Music/Math, Arts, Reading and Theatre/Technology. There are eight stations the children visit in half hour intervals to learn about several subjects.

As you pass by Sesto Park between the hours of 10 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. you will see children learning science in the pavilion, boys playing basketball, teen girls learning a new dance, youth playing volleyball and much more.

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Renee Hawthorne is the camp's director, and she is seeking additional help.

"We are mentoring these children," said Hawthorne. "Such groups as the Science Depot come out every week. We still need mentoring groups to volunteer their time and talents to these children. My goal was to service children that can't afford to pay for camp."

The Chicago White Sox came through and donated tickets to a game for the children. Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 is providing the transportation. 

Hawthorne asked Patch readers for help. "These children need to hydrate," she said. "They are outside all day. We are looking for donations of water, Gatorade and snacks. Lunches are provided by the Greater Chicago Food Depository."  

Mosby is thrilled to be part of S.O.S. "This is the first time I have worked with my family," he said. "I am very proud to be building our own organization to address the needs we see in our community."

If you are interested in helping the camp, please contact Renee Hawthorne at 708-365-9889 or send an e-mail to greaterfaithyfs@gmail.com.

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