NORWICH – As the ramifications of recent floods settle into the homes and hearts of Chenango County residents, it’s the work of good people that will rebuild the structures and spirits of many local communities.

Through its summer youth camp, the Chenango County Sheriff’s Department is helping to ensure that future ups and downs in this area, and others, will also be met head-on with strong, civic-minded individuals.

“It’s a program that we’re all very proud of,” said Sheriff Thomas Loughren. “It’s a contribution that I’ve made – that we’ve made – to youth and to Chenango County, building character, respect, caring and honesty.”

The Sheriff’s camp is free of charge for area kids ages 9 through 12, and has been in operation for 11 years at Camp Thompson in Smyrna.

For five weeks of the summer Loughren said it’s a place where kids can have fun surrounded by great role models, in a safe and healthy environment.

Loughren and head counselor Josh Royce agreed that programs such as the camp are necessary to keep kids healthy in the future, but also it meets their immediate needs.

“Especially this year,” said Royce, “with the flooding and the tragedy many of these kids have endured.”