Learning to swim is one of the most important life skills a child can have, and now it's becoming easier, and more affordable, for families across New York.
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced an expansion of the state's NY SWIMS initiative, bringing free learn-to-swim lessons for children ages 0 to 12 to more communities through a new partnership between the New York State Department of Health, SUNY campuses and YMCA locations statewide.
Mohawk Valley Families Will Benefit
The expansion includes Mohawk Valley Community College, making it one of just nine SUNY campuses selected to offer free swimming lessons this year.
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Families in Central New York will also have access to lessons through the YMCA of Central New York, giving parents even more opportunities to help their children become confident and safe around the water.
Additional participating SUNY campuses include:
- Mohawk Valley Community College
- SUNY Cortland
- SUNY Delhi
- Binghamton University
- SUNY Maritime
- North Country Community College
- SUNY Old Westbury
- Orange County Community College
- Tompkins Cortland Community College
More than two dozen YMCA locations across New York are also participating, including Capital District, Broome County, Oneonta, Watertown, Auburn, Ithaca and many others. Families should contact their local YMCA for lesson schedules and eligibility requirements.
Why These Lessons Matter
The expansion comes as drowning continues to be a serious concern across the country.
According to state officials, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in the United States and remains one of the leading causes of death for children ages 5 to 14.
Teaching children how to swim doesn't just build confidence, it gives them skills that can help save their lives, whether they're at a neighborhood pool, the beach or one of New York's many lakes and rivers.
Part of New York's Massive NY SWIMS Initiative
The free lessons are part of NY SWIMS, a statewide program launched in 2024 to improve water safety while expanding access to swimming opportunities. The initiative has grown into the largest investment in public swimming infrastructure New York has seen since the New Deal.
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Since its launch, the state says it has invested nearly $260 million in 79 swimming-related projects across every region of New York, with an estimated 2.5 million New Yorkers expected to benefit from improved pools, aquatic facilities and recreational opportunities.
The initiative also supports lifeguard training, upgrades to public swimming facilities and expanded access to affordable recreation during the summer months.
How to Sign Up
Parents interested in free swimming lessons should contact their local participating YMCA or one of the eligible SUNY campuses to learn when registration opens and whether space is available.
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Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff
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