Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled a $5.5 million initiative aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of New York's youth through expanded access to swimming lessons. This significant financial commitment will bolster the Parks Department’s "Swim for Life" program, targeting second graders across all five boroughs and extending to other city schools. Thanks to this funding, an additional 4,800 students will now benefit from these vital lessons, bringing the total number of participants close to 18,000 annually.
The announcement was made during the mayor's State of the City address in 2025, emphasizing the importance of equipping young New Yorkers with life-saving skills. The "Swim for Life" program offers three sessions per school year—winter, spring, and fall—preparing students for safer summers. This initiative also commemorates two teenagers, Elyjah Chandler and Christian Perkins, who tragically lost their lives last June off Jacob Riis Beach. Their names are now tied to the program at Brooklyn’s Erasmus High School, fulfilling a promise made by Mayor Adams to Chandler’s mother, Aminatu Noah.
Water safety remains a critical issue nationwide, with approximately 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings occurring annually in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For children under 5, drowning is the leading cause of death, while it ranks second for those aged 5 to 14, following motor vehicle accidents. By expanding free swim lessons, the city aims to reduce these alarming statistics.
Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue highlighted the essential nature of swimming as both a skill and a life-saving necessity. The program's expansion ensures that thousands more children, particularly in underserved areas, receive high-quality instruction. Through action honoring Elyjah and Christian, the city continues its mission to protect future generations.
This investment not only addresses water safety but also pays tribute to two young lives lost too soon. By integrating education and remembrance, New York City moves forward with hope and purpose, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn this crucial skill.