The YMCA of Lincoln is calling on the community to help local kids stay safe in the water this summer. The organization is hosting its sixth annual swimsuit drive from May 6 through 20. The goal is to collect new swimsuits for children enrolled in grant-funded swim lessons.
Those lessons, supported by a national YMCA grant and partnerships with Lincoln Public Schools and Community Learning Centers, focus on teaching critical water safety skills. Tabetha Burnham, aquatics director at the Northeast YMCA, says access can be a challenge for many families.
“Two of the biggest barriers families face when wanting to provide swim lessons for their children are transportation and cost, both for the lessons and swimsuits,” Burnham says. “We’re thrilled to continue this tradition of fostering water safety and confidence among Lincoln’s youth, while instilling a sense of joy and empowerment in children.”
The YMCA is asking for donations of new swimsuits with the tags still on in school-age sizes, from extra small to extra large, for both boys and girls. One-piece suits are preferred. The YMCA is also accepting cash donations that will be used to purchase swimsuits.
All donations will go directly to children participating in swim lessons starting in early June. Swimsuits can be dropped off at any of the four Lincoln YMCA locations, Cooper, Copple Family, Fallbrook, and Northeast.