Watch CBS News

Camden Receives $1M Grant To Develop Health And Athletic Programs For Children

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Southern New Jersey power broker George Norcross is leading an effort to breathe new life into youth athletics in Camden.

The Chairman of Cooper University Health Care says a comprehensive youth organization is, for the most part, extinct in Camden. So he's announced the creation of the Camden Health and Athletic Association, a nonprofit group infused with $1-million in foundation and corporate funding to help boost existing recreation organizations, create new athletic and health-related programs, new fields and uniforms.

Norcross says the next step is getting the word out.

"In the next week, every household in the city is going to get a letter from us," he said, "telling them about this organization, about what we're trying to do and asking for them to get engaged."

Camden County police and sheriffs officers have offered to lend a hand as coaches, umpires, referees and monitors.

In addition, the Camden County Board of Freeholders will conduct an assessment of all athletic facilities and fields in the city.

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.