From staff reports:

The third annual Federal Way Swim-A-Thon is just around the corner, running from April 29 to May 5 at the Federal Way Community Center.

The event raises money to help cover the costs for children’s swim lessons, in an effort to prevent drownings and other issues that can befall children when playing in or near the water.

“Swim lessons save young lives,” said Federal Way Public Works and Parks Directer Carey Roe. “The Swim-A-Thon puts swimming lessons in reach of families that might not be able to afford to learn basic water safety skills.”

According to the city, about 20 kids per quarter are unable to cover the costs of swim lessons. The money raised from the Swim-A-Thon is open to children from kindergarten to high school, who come from low-income families. In two years, the program has allowed 55 kids to get swim lessons.

The goal for the 2013 Swim-A-Thon is to raise $2,500, which would pay for 50 lessons. The average cost of a swim lesson is approximately $50, according to the city.

Contact Christie Welsh at the Federal Way Community Center at (253) 835-6944 or email christie.welsh@cityoffederalway.com.