State budget includes $500,000 for early learning programs that benefit Clarendon students

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A nationwide non-profit that advocates for children and which provides early learning programs across the state has been included in the 2017-18 state budget, which takes effect July 1. Gov. Henry McMaster approved the budget Monday; it includes $500,000 for Save the Children's early learning programs, which benefit students in Clarendon School Districts 1, 2 and 3, along with districts in Barnwell, Lee, Orangeburg and Union counties. “The South Carolina legislature made a wise investment in supporting Save the Children’s early learning programs, which help thousands of kids in rural areas each year and ensure that they will start kindergarten ready to succeed,” said Save the Children Action Network President Mark Shriver. "We know that early childhood education programs give kids a strong start in life and lead to stronger communities, so this is critical for South Carolina’s future.” Save the Children has worked in South Carolina since 2003 and currently partners with 15 schools in five counties to deliver programs to more than 5,500 children. In 2016, Save the Children’s U.S. programs directly served 317,000 children, Shriver said in a release. “Our programs have a major impact on the lives of the children and families we serve,” said Shriver. “We provide opportunities for students to boost their reading achievement, healthy snacks and nutrition education and home-visiting programs to help equip parents with the skills they need to help their child thrive. I’m grateful to the Governor and lawmakers in South Carolina for recognizing Save the Children’s value and investing in kids.”