NEW YORK (WKBW) — A new initiative has been unveiled by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, named the “Get Offline, Get Outside” summer campaign.
This innovative campaign is designed to encourage physical activity and mental well-being by inspiring children and families to step away from their digital devices, take a hiatus from social media, and immerse themselves in outdoor activities.
As an incentive to participate in the campaign, the state will be offering free entry to swimming pools at New York State Parks throughout the summer. Furthermore, the Connect Kids to Swimming Instruction Transportation Grant program is being introduced to assist with transportation to swimming lessons.
“We are facilitating ways for our youth to disconnect from their digital devices, spend quality time with loved ones, and remain active throughout our state. Summer has arrived – it’s time to get offline and get outside.”
The following swimming pools will be available for free access to New Yorkers this summer:
Hudson Valley
- Bear Mountain State Park Pool – Bear Mountain
- FDR State Park Pool – Yorktown
- High Tor State Park Pool – New City
- Rockland Lake State Park Pool – Valley Cottage
New York City
- Roberto Clemente State Park Pool – Bronx
- Riverbank State Park Pools (Indoor and Outdoor) – Manhattan
Long Island
- Jones Beach State Park West Bathhouse Pool – Wantagh
- Montauk Downs State Park Pool – Montauk
Capital Region
- Saratoga Spa State Park Pools (Peerless and Victoria) – Saratoga Springs
Mohawk Valley
- Mine Kill State Park Pool – North Blenheim
Southern Tier
- Watkins Glen State Park Pool – Watkins Glen
Finger Lakes
- Letchworth State Park Pool – Castile
Western New York
- Fort Niagara State Park Pool – Youngstown
North Country
- Keewaydin State Park Pool – Alexandria Bay
Agree – That’s a fantastic initiative to encourage people to disconnect from screens and enjoy the great outdoors. #GetOutsideNY
Great idea – I support any opportunity to enjoy nature and unplug from technology. #naturelovers