PICKENS COUNTY — Tragedy and the loss of a child is a difficult thing for a parent and sometimes making something positive come of the loss is the only way to cope.

For the friends and family of Emma Kapps, that is the case and Velux has made a donation to the cause.

Through a project organized by Pickens County Emergency Medical Services, a program is now in place to remember Emma and impact the lives of other children.

Emma died after she was struck by a vehicle while riding her scooter. She was not wearing a helmet at the time and that is where the project — “Emma Kapps (Kids are Precious People)” — comes in.

David Childress, assistant director of PCEMS, said it was the tragic loss that spawned a movement to create change and safety for children in Pickens County.

“This project came about because of the tragic event where a young first grade girl was struck by a car while riding her scooter. She was not wearing a helmet and lost her life that day,” Childress stated. “As part of the healing process for her parents and our employees who responded to the call, we want to try to turn heartbreak into something positive. Through donations we purchase helmets and they are taken to Chastain Road Elementary School and given to every first grader along with a safety message.”

Velux saw the need and responded, presenting a $200 check to the project.

“I just think it’s important people in the community know about this opportunity to help the children in our community, and maybe save a life,” said Scott Mercks of Velux. “Velux was proud to become involved and we want to encourage the community to become involved too.”

Over the last three year the Emma Kapps Project has taken hold and continues to grow. This year’s efforts allowed PCEMS and “Emma Kapps” to not only provide helmets for Chastain Road’s first graders but also Liberty Elementary’s first graders as well.

Scott Marcks, left, of Velux, presents a $200 check to Pickens County EMS Assistant Director David Childress for the “Emma Kapps” Project to assist in purchasing bicycle helmets for local first graders.
http://pickenssentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_DSC00534.jpgScott Marcks, left, of Velux, presents a $200 check to Pickens County EMS Assistant Director David Childress for the “Emma Kapps” Project to assist in purchasing bicycle helmets for local first graders. Courtesy photo

By D. C. Moody

dmoody@civitasmedia.com

Reach D. C. Moody at 864-855-0355.