Great news for local families: learning to swim just got easier and completely budget-friendly! Beginning this fall, the YMCA of Broome County is offering free 6-week swim lesson sessions for kids ages 6 months to 12 years old at the West Family Branch in Johnson City.
Thanks to the statewide NY SWIMS initiative (funded by a $3 million grant awarded to the NYS YMCA Foundation by the NYS Department of Health), cost won't stand in the way of teaching our kids essential, lifesaving water safety skills. Whether you have a tiny swimmer getting comfortable splashing or a big kid ready to build confidence, jump on this community resource early!
🏊 Program Quick Facts
- 📍 Location: West Family YMCA (740 Main Street, Johnson City)
- 👶 Ages: 6 months through 12 years old
- 🗓️ Format: Free 6-week sessions (up to 152 children per session)
- 💵 Cost: 100% FREE (Open to both YMCA members & non-members!)
Registration Schedule
| Session | Starts | Member Reg. | Non-Member Reg. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall I | Sept 9 | Aug 15 | Aug 31 |
| Fall II | Nov 2 | Oct 5 | Oct 19 |
* Additional free swim lesson slots will also be available during winter programming to reach the maximum funded sessions! Space is limited and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to Know Before You Register
- Pool Renovation Notice: The West Family YMCA is preparing for an upcoming pool renovation project. While schedule adjustments may occur for one session to accommodate construction, the Y is fully committed to delivering all lessons!
- Why It Matters: Drowning remains a leading cause of injury-related death in children. Early swim instruction builds water safety, self-confidence, and lifelong healthy habits.
"One of the best parts of teaching swim lessons is watching a child go from being unsure in the water to smiling with confidence by the end of the session. Thanks to this funding, we'll be able to give that experience to hundreds more children in our community."
— Amy Wehrs, Aquatics Director for the YMCA of Broome County
How to Sign Up
Don't wait—these spots will fill up fast! You can register or grab more details using any of the following methods:
- Online: Visit ymcabroome.org
- Phone: Call the West Family YMCA at (607) 772-0560
- In-Person: Stop by the welcome desk at 740 Main Street, Johnson City, NY
Sponsored Content
This article is sponsored by the YMCA of Broome County, a valued sponsor of Macaroni KID Binghamton. We appreciate your support in reviewing our sponsors' articles and hope that their offerings are useful for you and your family.
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