Community NewsHalton Region

Halton Hills Partners with Optimist Club to Expand Swim to Survive Program for Students

Halton Hills Swim to Survive program receives funding boost through Optimist Club partnership

The Town of Halton Hills has announced a new three-year partnership with the Optimist Club of Halton Hills to support the delivery of the Lifesaving Society’s Swim to Survive program for local students.

Under the agreement, the Optimist Club will contribute $15,000 to help fund the water safety initiative, which is delivered to Grade 3 students through local schools at Town-operated pools.

Building Essential Water Safety Skills

The Swim to Survive program is designed to equip children with critical lifesaving skills, including how to recover from an unexpected fall into deep water, tread water for one minute, and swim 50 metres.

The Town says the program plays a key role in improving water safety awareness, building confidence, and ensuring equitable access to aquatic education across the community.

Community Partnership Focused on Youth Safety

Mayor Ann Lawlor highlighted the importance of the partnership in supporting youth safety and accessibility.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to keeping children safe and ensuring all youth have access to important life skills,” said Mayor Lawlor. “We are grateful to the Optimist Club of Halton Hills for their continued donation to community programs.”

The funding will help offset program costs such as transportation and instruction, reducing financial barriers for families and allowing more students to participate.

Supporting Access and Inclusion

The Optimist Club of Halton Hills says the initiative aligns with its mission to support youth development and community well-being.

“The Optimist Club is proud to support programs that make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people,” said Iris Krahmer, President of the Optimist Club of Halton Hills. “Swim to Survive equips children with skills that can save lives, and we’re pleased to partner with the Town to expand access to this important program.”

Strengthening Community Programs

Town officials say the partnership reinforces broader goals around safety, inclusion, and access to recreation for young residents.

The Swim to Survive program continues to be delivered through Halton Hills’ aquatic facilities, helping ensure that students across Georgetown, Acton and surrounding communities gain essential water safety skills.


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Alwin Marshall-Squire

Alwin Marshall-Squire is the Editor-in-Chief of S-Q Publications Inc., overseeing editorial strategy for GTA Weekly, GTA Today, and Vision Newspaper. He leads the publications’ mission to deliver bold, original journalism focused on the people and communities of the Greater Toronto Area, Canada, and the global Caribbean diaspora. Also writes for GTA Weekly and GTA Today.

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