WASHINGTON: Dozens of South Carolina charitable organizations will receive grants totaling $85,000 from a program operated by the State Ports Authority, the maritime agency announced Thursday. The grants are given to organizations that have a positive impact on at least one of four categories: maritime commerce; economic development; environmental awareness; and community outreach. Grants of $5,000, $2,500 and $1,000 will be given to 49 groups. This year’s total is the most funding ever awarded under the SPA’s Community Giving Program.
“The port’s mission extends well beyond our gates,” Jim Newsome, the SPA’s president and CEO, said in a statement. “As we grow in our role as an economic development engine for the state, so does our commitment to be a strong community partner and neighbor. The organizations selected to receive grant funds will support critical programs and initiatives across the state.”
Charleston Waterkeeper, which protects and restores Charleston’s waterways. The group will use grant funds as part of its recreational water quality monitoring program. Chucktown Squash Scholars, a year-round youth development organization that combines the sport of squash with academic tutoring, fitness education, civic engagement and mentoring to make a difference in the lives of Charleston’s under-served youth population.
Team Backpack Journalists, an after-school program that provides students with real-world journalism experiences, including the process of writing, storytelling, and film making. Grant funds will be used for the group’s Cars & Parts to the Seaport Project in Title One schools within the Charleston County School District. Under the program, students will study the process of automobile manufacturing and how vehicles are shipped through the Port of Charleston to customers worldwide.
“There is great pride in the port’s Community Giving Program, both in the selection of the grants and the ongoing relationships formed with recipients,” Pat McKinney, chairman of the SPA’s board of directors, said in a statement. “This program helps fulfill the port’s mission to positively impact the communities across the state where we operate.” Other recipients earned $2,500 and $1,000 grants for their programs and efforts, including: mentoring, free books and STEAM-based education; emergency assistance and community health; and economic and environmental sustainability.
