STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In a groundbreaking effort to close the water safety gap and equip children with a vital life skill, a new public-private partnership is launching a free swim instruction program for every second-grade student in select Staten Island schools.

Announced on September 16, the initiative is backed by a catalytic grant from the Heckscher Foundation for Children and brings together the YMCA of Greater New York, the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, and the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation. The pilot program will serve more than 800 second graders during the 2025–26 school year.

“Swimming is more than a recreational activity—it’s a life-saving skill that builds confidence and promotes equity,” said Peter Sloane, Chairman and CEO of the Heckscher Foundation

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