Here is how Floridians can get free or low-cost swimming lessons

ORLANDO, Fla. – Applications are open for people who want to get a voucher for free swimming lessons for their young children in Florida. 

The state’s Water Smart FL website shows that people can apply for the vouchers. Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez launched the program in September 2024. 

To apply, you need to have proof of a family income that is no more than 200% of federal poverty guidelines, proof of Florida residency, and the date of birth of the child. 

Right now, the program is only open to children ages four and younger. 

Go to WaterSmartFL.com to apply. The vouchers are only available at certain places, and that list is provided HERE.   

The program is part of a new Florida law that went into effect in July 2024 to set up the voucher program so more children could learn to swim, in a state with one of the highest rates of child drowning deaths in the country. 

According to the Florida Department of Health, Florida ranked No. 1 in the country for unintentional drowning deaths for children between the ages of one and four, from 2019 to 2021. 

According to Flagler County Fire Rescue, 16 children have died from drowning this year in Florida.  

The state also says that annually, there are enough children under five who drown to fill three or four preschool classrooms. 

Meanwhile, there are other organizations that also help provide free and low-cost swim lessons across the state and the U.S., such as: 

• Step Into Swim — This Virgina-based organization started in 2012 and has since funded swim lessons for more than 300,000 children, per its website. The group helps parents get connected with teachers and financial assistance. 
• Every Child a Swimmer — This is a Fort Lauderdale-based group behind the International Swimming Hall of Fame. It is similar to the Step into Swim program as it also helps people find a swim lesson provider that offers scholarships. 

All in all, with National Water Safety Month coming up in May, some organizations may host free events to promote free or low-cost swim lessons, Water Safety FL has those details HERE.