As summer approaches, the City of St. Petersburg is preparing to offer a range of programs aimed at keeping children safe, active, and engaged. The city will provide free and affordable activities such as swim lessons, youth safety events, reading programs, and access to pools.
The Parks & Recreation Department is bringing back the Learn to Swim Program at all city pool locations starting in June. The program targets both children from six months old and adults, teaching essential water safety skills. “With Florida consistently ranking among the highest in the nation for unintentional drowning deaths, particularly among children under the age of 5, learning to swim is a vital, life-saving skill.” Sessions include eight classes each led by certified American Red Cross instructors for $39 per participant. Financial aid is available for eligible families.
To promote violence prevention during school breaks, Safe Summer Fridays will offer youths aged 12-16 activities like open gyms and movie nights. Families are encouraged to attend the Safe Summer Kickoff event on May 31 at Campbell Park Recreation Center.
St. Petersburg’s neighborhood pools will open to the public from May 24-26 and resume regular summer hours starting May 31. Admission fees vary between neighborhood pools and North Shore Aquatic Complex. Details about operating hours are available online.
The St. Petersburg Library System invites residents to participate in its Color Our World summer reading program from May 31 through August 2. Activities commence at James Weldon Johnson Community Library on May 31.
In collaboration with Healthy St. Pete and Summer BreakSpot, the Parks & Recreation Department will provide free meals through the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program from June 2 to August 8 for children under 18 while schools are closed.
More information on these initiatives can be found on respective websites or by visiting city facilities.
