Grant supports efforts to offer free or reduced-cost swim lessons

The Gateway Family YMCA was chosen as one of 69 youth programs from the USA Swimming Foundation’s nationwide network of swim lesson providers to receive grant money in early 2023.

The grant award will go toward The Gateway Family YMCA’s continued efforts to provide free or reduced-cost swim lessons. The USA Swimming Foundation has awarded a total of $647,522 to programs.

“The Gateway Family YMCA is thrilled to be chosen for this grant, and we are grateful for the continued partnership of USA Swimming,” said Melynda A. Disla, president and CEO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “This grant funding allows us to provide drowning prevention and swimming lesson efforts for 80 children from the local community in the city of Elizabeth.”

“Water safety is a necessary life skill and we are committed to providing a curriculum that provides water safety information and basic swimming skills for all,” said Rodger D. Koerber, executive vice president, chief operating officer.

The USA Swimming Foundation vetted more than 345 applications through a competitive annual review process and chose 69 youth and 35 adult programs to receive funding.

“The USA Swimming Foundation is thrilled to provide funding to 104 swim lesson providers across 29 states,” USA Swimming Foundation Senior Director of Development Elaine Calip said. “Over 14,000 individuals will now have the opportunity to learn the lifesaving skill of water safety across the country. We owe a tremendous thank you to our partners and donors who continue to make a difference in our mission of saving lives and building champions.”