Congressman Williams Recognizes Austin YMCA

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin) took the House floor on Thursday to recognize the Austin Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) during National Drowning Prevention Month.

This month is dedicated to educating families across America about water safety and drowning prevention.

Williams' remarks are below:

"Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on behalf of the two children who die every single day in the United States as a result of drowning.

"I want to recognize the Young Men's Christian Association, or YMCA, for their efforts to empower youth with the imperative skills and knowledge to prevent these tragic accidents.

"Drowning is the number two cause of death for children ages one to four; second only to birth defects.

"In Texas alone, 107 children lost their lives due to drowning last year. In 2017 we have already lost 14.

"Mr. Speaker, these statistics are absolutely unacceptable.

"Both in Texas and across the nation there is an opportunity and need to save these young individuals.

"The YMCA is an example of an organization that is changing the statistics for kids across the country.

"It is bringing swimming safety and drowning prevention strategies to communities which, historically, could not obtain them before.

"It partners with local schools to transport kids to the ‘Y' for year-round swimming lessons.

"I am proud to say the YMCA of Austin is one of many across the country implementing the ‘Safety Around Water Program.'

"The program strives to reduce these incidences by going into overlooked communities to provide the necessary resources for kids who otherwise, would not have access to these life-saving skills.

"I applaud the Austin YMCA on its tireless efforts to save the lives of our children.

"In God we trust."