Budget cutbacks have forced many summer programs in Bainbridge, Georgia to close their doors.

Tynese Jones is a working mother of four who's feeling the effects of the economic downturn. She and her husband normally enroll their boys in summer programs. But this year, lack of state and community funding forced all the programs in her area to close.

"The challenge is to find somewhere that's affordable, educational where they can learn and enjoy the summer is tough right now" says, Jones.

Working parents say they can't afford not to work, but they also can't afford a babysitter forty hours a week.

Father of two, Greg McDonald decided to take matters into his own hands by starting Atlas Summer Camp. "We started this program based on the need we have in our community and based on the outcry of parents who need a program like this" says, McDonald

While this program will offer educational activities for kids ages five to 12, there's still nothing in the community for teenagers. Some parents say they have considered leaving children home alone at a younger age than they planned. Other parents say having hundreds of teenagers hanging around with nothing to do is not good for the community.

Jones and her husband say they will have to make some tough decisions. "We're going to have to juggle some things and make a sacrifice because he and I both need to continue to work" says, Jones. But, she says they will do whatever they can to make sure their boys are safe all summer long.

Atlas Summer Camp will be held at Grace Christian Academy in Bainbridge. For more information on the Atlas Summer Camp contact Greg McDonald at 229.400.2021.