Free Swim Program Helps Canarsie Youth Stay Safe This Summer

Photo Credit: H.E.S.

The Free Swim Program in Canarsie is giving local children the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills while staying active during the summer months. Supported by Assemblymember Jaime Williams, the initiative aims to improve youth safety, build confidence in the water, and provide healthy recreational opportunities for Brooklyn families.

Free Swim Program Expands Water Safety Opportunities in Canarsie

The Free Swim Program is helping Canarsie families prepare for a safer summer by offering no-cost swimming instruction for children ages 5 to 12.

Administered through the Hebrew Educational Society (H.E.S.), the program focuses on teaching swimming fundamentals, water safety awareness, and confidence-building skills that can help children safely enjoy pools, beaches, camps, and other waterfront activities.

According to an announcement distributed through NYC Newswire, Assemblymember Jaime Williams is encouraging local families to take advantage of the program as part of broader efforts to promote youth wellness and community safety throughout Southeast Brooklyn.

The initiative arrives as thousands of New York families prepare for summer recreation, when access to swimming instruction can play an important role in preventing water-related accidents.

Jaime Williams Supports Programs That Benefit Brooklyn Families

Williams said providing opportunities that improve both safety and health remains a priority for the communities she represents.

“Summer should be a time for children and families to enjoy themselves, but it is also important that young people understand how to be safe around water,” Williams said.

She noted that swimming is both a critical life skill and a form of exercise that can provide lifelong health benefits.

“Every child deserves access to opportunities that help them grow, stay active, and remain safe,” Williams added. “Programs like this provide valuable skills, build confidence, and create positive experiences for our young people during the summer.”

The program is funded through support from Assemblymember Jaime Williams and Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman as part of ongoing efforts to expand youth services and family resources across Brooklyn neighborhoods.

What the Free Swim Program Offers

The Learn-to-Swim program includes several services designed to make swimming instruction accessible to local families.

Program features include:

  1. Free swim instruction for youth ages 5-12
  2. Classes held twice each week
  3. Water safety education and swimming fundamentals
  4. Specialized swim groups for children with disabilities
  5. Instruction provided by trained swim professionals

Organizers say the program is designed to create a welcoming environment for children of varying skill levels while helping participants develop confidence and safety awareness in and around water.

Why Water Safety Matters in Brooklyn

Programs like the Free Swim Program play an important role in communities across Brooklyn, where families frequently visit public pools, beaches, waterfront parks, and summer camps.

Water safety advocates have long emphasized that early swim instruction can help reduce drowning risks while encouraging healthy physical activity among children.

The program also reflects broader community efforts to ensure that families have access to affordable recreational and educational opportunities regardless of income level.

By removing financial barriers to swim instruction, organizers hope to reach more children before the peak summer season begins.

What Happens Next

Parents interested in participating are encouraged to contact the Hebrew Educational Society directly for information regarding eligibility, scheduling, and registration.

Officials note that available space may be limited and early registration is recommended.

Program Information

Hebrew Educational Society (H.E.S.)
9502 Seaview Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11236

Phone: (718) 241-3000
https://www.thehes.org/

Additional details were first outlined in a press release published via NYC Newswire.

The Free Swim Program highlights ongoing efforts by local leaders and community organizations to provide Brooklyn children with opportunities that promote safety, wellness, and lifelong skills.


What Readers Want To Know

What is the Free Swim Program?
The Free Swim Program provides no-cost swimming instruction and water safety education for children ages 5 to 12 in Canarsie.

Who can participate?
The program is open to youth ages 5-12 and includes specialized swim groups for children with disabilities.

Where are the lessons held?
The program is administered through the Hebrew Educational Society (H.E.S.) in Canarsie.


Stay Updated and Subscribe

Get the latest updates on Brooklyn community programs, youth initiatives, local events, education, health, and neighborhood news delivered directly to your inbox.

Subscribe and join our newsletter to stay ahead of Brooklyn’s biggest community and family-focused stories.

Lucille has 6 years as an editor, covering evertyhing from dining, community issues, politics and health. She writes for NYC News Network and its affiliates.

Leave a Reply