Riedel Foundation to fund swim program for Hannibal third graders

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Riedel Foundation will fund a program for the 10th year that teaches water safety to Hannibal third grade students.

The YMCA of Hannibal will use a recent $7,500 grant award to be the host of a third grade swim and water safety program. Transportation is provided to the students at Hannibal’s five public elementary schools. Lifeguards and swim instructors from the Y teach the children.

In a press release, coordinator Kelly Colley said, “We want to empower the kids with the knowledge and time to practice swimming skills and improve the swimming skills they may already have. Our goal is work with them so they understand how to have fun in the water in a safe way.”

The students will get instruction on the role of a lifeguard, wearing life jackets and when to call 9-1-1. The Riedel Foundation grant also supplies swimsuits to children who don’t have them. The classes will be in April and May at the YMCA of Hannibal.