Newark, NJ – February 28, 2022 – Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Director of Recreation, Cultural Affairs, and Senior Services Patrick Council announced today that the City of Newark is launching a Learn to Swim Program for Children with Autism, which will teach children and young adults across the spectrum water safety and swim instruction.

The program will commence on Wednesday, March 9, at the John F. Kennedy Aquatic Center, and will be held every Wednesday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., through Wednesday, May 25. The Center is located at 211 West Kinney Street in the Central Ward, with the entrance on Howard Street.

“It is important for us to empower all of our residents to take part in recreational activities no matter their age or ability,” Mayor Baraka said. “Water safety and swimming training programs for our Newark children with Autism will provide them with lifelong skills that they can use to enjoy life at all ages.”

“Our recreation programs are designed to support a wide range of Newark residents of ages and abilities,” Director Council said. “These include seniors, differently-abled, and autistic Newarkers. I am proud of all the programs we have launched or have in place, the team that manages them, and urge our residents to participate in them.”

All Water Safety Instructors are certified by the American Red Cross.

For more information, call (973) 733-6560 or (973) 715-2856.

-NEWARK-

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