CT DEEP, CIFC, Partner To Offer Free Swim Lessons In Danbury

DANBURY, CT — The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has partnered with the Connecticut Institute For Communities, Inc. of Danbury to offer a free swimming lesson program.

The $128,000 program, funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act funds, is expected to serve 300 children, ages 17 and under, each year.

Children who live in a qualified census tract and/or receive SNAP benefits — or are recommended to the program — are eligible to register for the free swimming lessons from CIFC at the Danbury Community Center.

"Swimming is such an important skill for children in our area to learn. The Danbury Community Center has the only publicly available pool in the city, but with Candlewood Lake and nearby Squantz Pond, it's critical to have this opportunity available so children can enjoy these recreational opportunities safely and with confidence," said State Rep. Rachel Chaleski, who was among the elected officials on hand for the announcement.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more children ages 1-4 die from drowning in the United States than any other cause of death, and two children die every day from drowning. For children ages 5-14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury or death.

"Additionally, opportunities for recreation are so important to the well-being of our youth, individuals, and families when we note that obesity, mental health challenges, and lack of access to recreational activities and facilities all disproportionately impact minority and low-income communities, as well as individuals of color,” said Katie Curran, CEO of the Connecticut Institute For Communities, Inc.

The free lessons are available through CIFC on a first-come, first-served basis by calling the Danbury Community Center or visiting their location at 12 Boughton Street. Over 100 children have qualified already and CIFC can offer this opportunity to additional children.

“Free swimming lessons will save lives — preventing some of the hundreds of drownings that occur to children every year,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal. "Using federal funds to teach kids how to enjoy water safely will prevent senseless tragedies. Thanks to organizations like CIFC — and their swim lessons — kids will have brighter, better futures.”

DEEP has already begun hiring lifeguards for next year at the State’s shoreline and inland swimming areas, including at Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield. The agency's partnerships with Connecticut YMCAs and the Boys and Girls Club of New Britain has resulted in more than 2,000 children learning how to swim since lessons began in November, 2022, according to a DEEP news release.