Florida continues to own a devastating statistic when it comes to childhood drownings. The Sunshine State has the highest rate of drowning in the nation for those under 18 years old, more than double the next closest states of Texas and Arizona.
To counter those statistics, the YMCA of South Florida, which has one of the most comprehensive water safety and drowning prevention programs, highlights the importance of swim lessons with its annual “Swim for Jenny,” a week-long initiative providing free swim lessons to individuals of all ages throughout South Florida, with the goal of reducing the risk of drowning and promoting a culture of aquatic safety in local communities.
Generously underwritten by Nicklaus Children’s Health System, this year’s Swim for Jenny is set for March 24-28 at the YMCA locations in Fort Lauderdale (L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center), Hallandale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines and Weston.
“The need for accessible and affordable swim lessons is greater than ever as drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one to four,” said YMCA of South Florida President and CEO Sheryl A. Woods. “Swim lessons are critically important for ensuring that our kids are safe, particularly here in South Florida where we are practically surrounded by water. It’s been proven that children who receive formal swim instruction are 88% less likely to drown, and this is why Swim for Jenny has enabled us to positively affect tens of thousands of people in our communities by facilitating these life-saving lessons.”
Launched in 2013, “Swim for Jenny” is named after a young girl who drowned two years prior because she couldn’t swim. Since the initiative was implemented, more than 25,000 people have taken part, and more than 100,000 swim lessons have been provided.
Miami-Dade and Broward counties lead the nation in child drownings, and last year alone, 101 child fatal drownings were reported in Florida. For every child who dies from drowning, another seven receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries.
To register for free swim lessons through “Swim for Jenny”, visit ymcasouthflorida.org/swim-for-jenny.
About the YMCA of South Florida
For more than a century, the YMCA has been woven into the fabric of the South Florida community. As an award-winning nonprofit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through more than 200 programs serving everyone from six months old to 100 years young. Our Family Centers and programs are inclusive, vibrant hubs of community life, offering a diverse array of classes, cutting-edge fitness facilities, life-saving aquatics, exciting community events, unforgettable camps, supportive afterschool care, and holistic health and wellness programming. At the Y, there’s something for everyone. Join the movement by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or YMCASouthFlorida.org.
