As the economy creates more and more STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) jobs, there is an increased need to stimulate interest in these fields in children.

One of the ways Salvation Army is working to do this is through their robotics program, which is currently in its second year.

The Salvation Army’s robotics team makes LEGO robots and is open to children ages 8 to 14.

Jed Eberly, a microbiologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, leads the team.

“The primary reason we do this is to encourage STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education,” he said. “Especially in this community where there’s probably not a lot of interest until you get kids involved in something like this. We’re able to provide that safe after-school environment for them where they can learn.”

Parent Carolyn Ross said the program has taught her children things she did not even know were possible.

“They have their robotics team, which is excellent,” she said. “I never knew what that was, but now my son is programming computers.”

Captain Srikant Bhatnagar said donations are needed in order to fund the training program.

“Your donation will cover the cost for securing supplies such as pencils, paper, glue, robot supplies kit, Legos, pieces, registration fees, food, snacks, computer hardware and software, and various other operating costs,” he said. “Businesses/organizations wishing to donate will be recognized at the competition through display of their business logo on the team shirts, table display, or through a special thanks sign.”

Gold donations are $1,000 or more, silver donations are $500 and bronze donations are $250.

“As an individual, business, church or civic group, together we can make a difference,” he said.

Checks should be made payable to Salvation Army Vicksburg and mailed to 350 Mission 66 Vicksburg, MS 39180.

For more information, contact Bhatnagar at 601-636-2706.