CANTON – Twenty-five St. Lawrence County children are attending the 36th annual New York State Sheriff’s Association Institute Summer Camp this year, according to county Sheriff Kevin M. Wells.

The camp is designed to provide a solid recreational program along with the development of a sense of good citizenship.

Deputy Sheriff Suzanne Williams has been the sheriff’s office coordinator of the program and has had direct interaction with schools, school nurses, parents and children.

The camp, located near Penn Yan in Yates County, is supported by the sheriff’s association’s honorary members through their contributions and annual dues. This year, the camp will accommodate over 900 children from across the state.

The camp “is designed to provide a child who ordinarily would not have the chance, an opportunity to go away during the summer and participate in a positive experience,” said Wells. “The primary objective is to create a positive interaction between the kids attending camp and the sheriffs and deputy sheriffs who participate in the camp programs.”

Throughout the week-long stay, children observe special exhibits and demonstrations presented by sheriffs offices from across the state. Included are DARE presentations, boat and bike safety programs, law enforcement equipment and technical demonstrations, archery competitions and a talent show.