(WWJ) Huron Clinton Metroparks have teamed up with several fundraising and recreational partners to offer free swim lessons for 1,300 children in Southeast Michigan.
The lessons are designed for children five to thirteen years old, but teens and adults are also welcome. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Classes will be offered in seven locations, including pools in Detroit, Waterford, Ypsilanti, Howell and Mt. Clemens as well as on Belle Isle Beach.
All registered participants will also receive a swimsuit, goggles, a bag and a towel.
A 2021 survey conducted by the Huron-Clinton Metroparks and consultant Counsilman-Hunsaker showed that one of the largest barriers to learning to swim was that the fees for classes are just too high.
This was particularly true for people of color and for residents of the city of Detroit, where around 70 percent of kids have little to no swimming experience.
Parks officials say the free lessons are critical to removing those barriers to water safety, preventing drowning and allowing everyone the opportunity to enjoy Michigan's pools, lakes and waterparks.
Most swim lessons start in early June, and registration for some classes is already open. Openings are first-come, first-serve, though additional dates and classes may be added throughout the summer.
The best place to find information on the free swim lessons is on the Metroparks website.
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