Tampa YMCA Recognized by Tampa Bay Lightning for Life-Saving Drowning Prevention Efforts

Drowning is fast and silent, and the number of child drownings in Florida has increased over the last few years. In 2025, Florida set a record for child drownings with 110 reported deaths as of November 2025, surpassing the 106 that were reported in 2024. More children under the age of four drown in Florida than anywhere else in the nation, making drowning prevention an urgent and critical priority for our community.

At the Tampa YMCA, we are working to ensure not one more child drowns in our community. To achieve this lofty yet attainable goal, we offer numerous programs and initiatives, including discounted and free swim lessons for YMCA members and non-members, ensuring access to life-saving water safety education for all families.

In collaboration with YMCAs nationwide and numerous local community partners, we are making great strides toward reducing drowning in Florida. In 2025 alone, 13,810 children learned to swim and be safe in and around the water through Tampa YMCA programs, an essential step in protecting our smallest community members.

In recognition of this life-saving work, the Tampa YMCA’s Drowning Prevention program was selected as a recipient of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Community Hero Award. The Community Hero Program honors local nonprofit organizations making a meaningful impact across the Tampa Bay region by strengthening communities and changing lives. Through this recognition, the Tampa YMCA received both financial support and increased visibility to help expand drowning prevention efforts and reach even more families.

The Tampa YMCA’s Drowning Prevention program is rooted in the belief that swim lessons save lives. In 2025, 1,495 children gained critical, life-saving skills through the Y’s Safety Around Water program, while 1,185 youth received private swim lessons across our service area. Additionally, 182 area children participated in mobile swim lessons, bringing water safety education directly into their own neighborhoods and removing barriers to access.

We are deeply grateful to the Tampa Bay Lightning for recognizing the importance of drowning prevention efforts and for their commitment to supporting organizations that protect and uplift our community. With their partnership, and the continued support of families, donors and community leaders, the Tampa YMCA remains steadfast in its mission to create a safer Tampa Bay where every child has the skills and confidence to be safe in and around the water.