From WACH-TV in South Carolina:Hundreds of disability advocates rallied at the statehouse March 4. They're protested more than 85-million dollars in budget cuts over the last six months,
which have resulted in drastic service cuts.
Among them, a small Sumter program that's a big deal to the community.
It's a summer camp for young people with disabilities. Advocates say Camp Burnt Gin is too important to lose.
Passionate voices chanted a compelling request as supporters proudly held signs, as they make their way to the statehouse. People marched while saying "save our camp," hoping to catch state lawmakers' attention. They want Camp Burnt Gin fully funded.
The camp cost the State Department of Health and Environmental Control more than 200-thousand dollars each year. When DHEC cut its budget, C.B.G. as campers call it, became expendable.
"We can't let the camp die. There's no way, there's too many things go on there," says former camper Charles Hall.
He's spent his life in a wheelchair but says he didn't know another person like him until he went to Camp Burnt Gin - a place where kids are free from their disabilities.
"As soon as I went to Burnt Gin, a weight was lifted off my shoulders," says Hall.C.B.G. is the only place where disabled children can camp in South Carolina.
"It's not just a summer camp for fun, It's a quality of life that gives campers special opportunities to participate in activities they never have opportunities to participate in otherwise," says advocate Allen Bailey.
Supporters hope Wednesday's march and rally motivates lawmakers to leave Burnt Gin be.DHEC and private donors will fund the C.B.G. this summer. Advocates want people to write lawmakers asking them to support the camp for future sessions.
