EL CENTRO, Calif. – May 22, 2025: At its regular meeting on May 20, 2025, the El Centro City Council unanimously approved a Free Swim Admission Program and youth swim lesson scholarships for the 2025 summer season. The 2025 Summer Free Swim Admission Program was inspired by the vision of Mayor Sonia Carter, whose idea to provide equitable access to the pools for El Centro youth has helped eliminate barriers and promote community wellness throughout the summer.
Funded by a combination of grants – including $60,000 from LA84, $17,500 from the Red Cross, and anticipated funds from other local government agencies – the initiative will provide free public swim access to qualified applicants at the El Centro Aquatic Center from Memorial Day (May 26) through Labor Day (September 2), along with discounted swim lessons.
“This program has been a priority of mine because every child deserves the chance to learn to swim and enjoy the summer safely, regardless of their family’s income,” said Mayor Sonia Carter. “I’m grateful to my colleagues on the Council and to our staff for making this possible for the youth of El Centro.”
To qualify, applicants must provide proof of El Centro residency or school enrollment and meet income-based eligibility, such as participation in programs like Free/Reduced-Price School Lunch, Medi-Cal, CalFresh, or Section 8 Housing. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis while funding is available.
Scholarships are available exclusively to El Centro residents and youth enrolled in the El Centro Elementary School District or Central Union High School District. The application can be found on the City’s official social media pages or completed in person at the El Centro Aquatic Center.
For more information, please call 760-335-4550
