An outcry over rap lyrics has left a Stamford youth center scrambling to raise funds to send kids on a trip to West Africa.

Organizers of the Yerwood Center's Celebrity Basketball Fundraiser booked rapper Jadakiss, who was arrested last year on weapons and drugs charges, to perform at Stamford High School. They hoped to raise $15,000 to send eight children to an African village to build classrooms. Parents and church leaders protested over the talent and the possibility of violence, leading to the event being canceled.

The center moved the fundraiser to Bridgeport's Central High School, however, that community also protested. The event is now homeless and organizers worry that the talent is overshadowing the mission.

"My thing is really getting these kids to Africa and giving them an experience they won't get in the streets," Yerwood Center President Deborah Sewell said.

A minister who protested the event has now pledged $5,000 to make sure the kids reach their destination.

Related information:Yerwood Center203-327-2790