The YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metro Area is providing swim lesson scholarships this summer and fall to underserved kids in the community. The swim lessons will be free of charge for qualifying children, ages 3-12, at the Helen G. Nassif, Marion and Stoney Point Ys.
The next session begins July 10. To learn how to qualify for swim lesson scholarships, contact Eric Petersen at (319) 366-6421, ext. 403, or petersen@crmetroymca.org.
“Educating children how to be safe around water is just as important as teaching them to look both ways before they cross the street,” Paul Brown, aquatics director of the Helen G. Nassif YMCA, stated in a press release. “The Y teaches children of all ages and backgrounds that water should be  fun, not feared, and this practice not only saves lives, it builds confidence.”
Over the last 10 years, an average of 37 Iowans died each year from accidental drowning, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health. In 2015, there were 27 unintentional fatal drownings in the state of Iowa, five of whom were children under the age of 18.
There are a variety of programs, including swim lessons for children beginning at 6 months old, teen and adult swim lessons, private swim lessons, competitive swim team, competitive swim training and water exercise. Marion and Stoney Point Ys offer community swims every Friday night.
