Federal Grant Boosts Spartanburg’s Southside Community

News Summary

The Spartanburg Academic Movement has received a $1 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Promise Neighborhoods program. This funding will enhance educational resources and community support in the Southside area, aiming to address local challenges and improve opportunities for families. Key initiatives include a site coordinator role at E.P. Todd Elementary and efforts to boost school readiness and community engagement. The grant reflects a commitment to a brighter future for residents through collaboration and sustainable development.

Exciting News for Spartanburg’s Southside Community!

In a significant boost to the Southside community of Spartanburg, a remarkable federal grant of $1 million has been awarded to the Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM) through the U.S. Department of Education’s Promise Neighborhoods program. This funding is set to transform educational and community support over the next two years, bringing a sense of hope and renewal to the area.

Aiming for Change

This grant is not just a one-time handout; it’s known as a “planning-slash-implementation grant,” designed to provide immediate assistance while mapping out a sustainable future for the community. Under the direction of SAM, the initiative will tackle several ongoing challenges that families face, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.

One exciting part of the grant’s rollout is the establishment of a site coordinator position at E.P. Todd Elementary School. This dedicated role will help families navigate and access valuable community services, ensuring no one is left behind. It’s worth noting that SAM already has site coordinators in place across six schools in Spartanburg County’s school districts 3 and 7, including Mary H. Wright Elementary and Carver Middle schools.

Community Collaboration

Moreover, this grant will enable the development of an initiative that brings together community voices. By coordinating discussions among Southside residents, neighborhood associations, local churches, schools, and other stakeholders, SAM is establishing a collaborative approach to problem-solving. This mirrors the successful community support efforts seen in other neighborhoods within Spartanburg, specifically the thriving Highland and Northside areas.

Goals for this ambitious initiative are set high. SAM aims to enhance school readiness, ensure students transition smoothly through the K-12 system, and boost opportunities for dual enrollment and internships for high schoolers. Engaging the community and uplifting the educational framework are central to creating lasting change.

The Vision for a Brighter Future

SAM’s executive leadership views this federal grant not just as a funding opportunity but as a crucial stepping stone for the Southside community. In parallel, Movement 2030 is focused on revitalizing the Highland and Northside neighborhoods, with current funding of around $100 million coming from various investments. If collaborations in Southside catch on, SAM is eyeing an opportunity to apply for an additional $30 million from the same program for even broader community support.

With the political landscape constantly shifting, concerns have been voiced regarding the future of federal funding, particularly under the incoming administration. SAM has assured that, should funding sources dwindle, they are committed to seeking alternative options to sustain local educational and community initiatives.

Unity in Action

The initiative also has the backing of numerous community partners including city and county officials, schools, and churches. For the past three years, the Southside Sankofa organization has made it its mission to address revitalization and promote equity within the community. In 2020, Spartanburg’s City Council acknowledged historical injustices and has committed itself to creating more equitable policies.

Southside Sankofa is focused on uniting various organizations to foster better living conditions and enhance community engagement. Key areas of concentration include health and wellness, safety, youth services, economic development, and education, all of which are planned strategically to uplift the local population.

Investing in the Next Generation

As part of these ongoing efforts, plans are being developed to establish an early-childhood center on the former Swim Center lot in Southside, enhancing educational opportunities for younger families. Economic strategies are also on the horizon to improve job opportunities and facilitate homeownership within the community.

The education committee is particularly active, aiming to increase parental involvement and address any developmental delays in children. Overall, the organization emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive safety measures and focused resource allocation to achieve the revitalization goals set for the Southside.

With strong collaboration and community spirit, the people of Spartanburg’s Southside are stepping into a promising future, holding onto the hope that this grant will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow!