HamCo WaterSmart initiative aims to equip youth with lifesaving swim skills

Hailey Waldo Riverbend News A new program meant to promote water safety and swimming confidence among youth is making a splash this summer. The HamCo WaterSmart initiative will provide Hamilton County children with access to high-quality swim instruction through the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program. Organized by Florida Youth Charitable, Inc., the initiative is based on their message: every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim. Drowning is preventable, and teaching children to safely navigate the water can have a lifelong impact. In addition to helping reduce the risk of drowning, swimming lessons build confidence, encourage physical activity and provide valuable