More than 5,500 families will be armed with life-saving knowledge thanks to a new community collaboration. A new $155,000 grant from the Florida Blue Foundation will expand the Y’s Safety Around Water to more than 30 Y locations in Tampa Bay. Safety Around Water is a free community outreach program that focuses on teaching children how to be safe in and around the water.
Last week, Florida Blue Market President David Pizzo and the CEOs from the Tampa YMCA, YMCA of the Suncoast, YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, Manatee YMCA and Sarasota YMCA came together to kick off the partnership at the South Tampa Family YMCA. “One of the perks of living in Tampa Bay is the abundance of water that surrounds us. From oceans to springs to pools, it’s a part of our life each day,” says David. “Unfortunately, it can also be extremely hazardous for young children. As part of our mission to help people and communities achieve better health, we’re proud to support the YMCA’s work to equip young children and their families with essential water safety skills.”
The Tampa Y will offer Safety Around Water three separate times in 2019, starting with Hillsborough County’s Spring Break. The three sessions will meet for four consecutive days. Certified instructors will help kids, ages 3-12 years, learn two sets of skills designed to reduce the risk of drowning and boost their confidence in and around water.
This free program is open to the community and a Y membership is not required; however, pre-registration is required due to limited space. Times vary based on location. For more information,
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Pictured above: (L to R) YMCA of the Suncoast CEO G. Scott Goyer, YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg CEO David Jezek, Sarasota YMCA CEO Laura Gilbert, Florida Blue Market President David Pizzo, Manatee YMCA CEO Sean Allison and Tampa YMCA CEO Matt Mitchell.
