In a splash of communal care, LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn today dove into action by presenting the Los Cerritos YMCA with a life-saving check that's aimed to help keep kids afloat. The generous $15,000 donation is to kickstart an anti-drowning initiative set to teach second graders the invaluable skill of swimming, according to a county bulletin.
"Drowning is a leading cause of death for young children in this country and too many kids in our communities can’t swim," Supervisor Hahn told gathered YMCA board members and local dignitaries, emphasizing the urgency of this lifesaving instruction. The program promises to be more than just lessons in paddling and breathing—it aims to directly save lives.
The motivation behind Hahn's contribution is a personal one; her tenure as a YMCA swim instructor for infants is a cherished memory and a driving force behind her commitment to water safety. The funding is poised to reduce the risk of drowning by equipping children with critical swimming skills and introducing them to a healthy, lifelong activity.
Destined to make a splash next Spring, the drowning prevention program will extend its reach to serve the young residents of Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, and Paramount. The Los Cerritos YMCA's initiative is structured to ensure no child is left out due to financial constraints.
George Franzen, Tony Manos, David Arellano, Jeremy Echnoz, Brad Garofalo, Artesia Councilmember Rene Trevino, and Mike Chai were among the key figures attending the check presentation, illustrating a broad coalition backing the swim program.
