DOH-Monroe Announces Free Swimming Lesson Vouchers for Eligible Children Ages 1 to 7

Monroe County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County (DOH-Monroe) encourages local families to apply for the Swimming Lesson Voucher Program, which has been expanded this year to provide free swimming lessons to eligible Florida children ages 1 to 7.

Drowning is fast, silent, and can happen to anyone. A drowning can occur in the few minutes it takes to answer a phone, grab a towel, or become distracted. In Florida, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death among children ages 1 to 4. With the numerous waterways and swimming pools throughout Monroe County, water safety and drowning prevention are especially important for local families.

The Swimming Lesson Voucher Program helps increase water safety and prevent drowning by providing free swimming lessons to eligible Florida families.

Eligibility Requirements and Providers

• Proof that gross family income is no more than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines (e.g., $66,000 for a family of four).
• Proof of Florida residency.
• Proof of the child’s date of birth.
• The child must be between ages 1 to 7 at the time of application.
• Swimming lessons must begin within 180 days of the voucher issuance date.

Approved participants will receive a voucher for eight to 16 free swimming lessons, depending on the applicant. Voucher recipients will be notified by email and can select from one of two participating providers.

Two participating locations are currently available in Monroe County:

• Jacob’s Aquatic Center in Key Largo
• The College of the Florida Keys in Key West

This year, Monroe County has received twice as many vouchers, creating additional opportunities for local children to participate. The program has also expanded its eligible age range to include children ages 1 to 7, extending access to school-aged children. DOH-Monroe is working with several local partners, including Head Start at Monroe County School District and the Star of the Sea (SOS) Foundation to promote the program.

Swimming lessons are an important layer of drowning prevention. Parents and caregivers should continue to provide close, attentive supervision whenever children are in or around water and use multiple layers of protection to help keep children safe.

Monroe County families are encouraged to apply while vouchers are available.

For more information, Monroe County residents may call Ivona Coleman at 305-619-5701 or email at Ivona.Coleman@FLHealth.gov.