Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Child Crisis Arizona is announcing expansion to its annual pool fence safety program.
In partnership with Salt River Project and 493 Firefighter Foundation through Sept. 30, parents or caregivers who are financially unable to afford pool barriers and have young children can apply to receive a pool fence free of cost.
“This past spring, we were proud to provide 11 families in need across Maricopa County with pool fences. Due to demand and thanks to the generosity of our partners — who understand firsthand the need in this community for creating actionable change to solve the community problem of child drownings – we are opening applications a second time,” said Caitlin Sageng, senior program director at Child Crisis Arizona.
“Child Crisis Arizona is home to Safe Kids Maricopa County, the local chapter for a worldwide organization aiming to prevent childhood injury and death. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1 to 4 years old and remains among the top five causes of death for children ages 5 to 9 years old.
In addition to providing pool fences at no cost to local families, the Child Crisis Arizona Pool Fence Safety Program educates parents and caregivers on the importance of keeping their children safe around water through a Virtual Water Safety Workshop led by a Safe Kids Maricopa County Program Coordinator, which is open throughout the year to anyone.
Families living in Maricopa County can apply to be awarded a new pool fence at no cost if they meet certain eligibility criteria. With applications available in both English and Spanish, those interested in receiving a free pool fencing installation can apply on the organization’s website, HERE.
Requirements are as follows:
- Must have a child age 6 or under living in the home
- Home must be owner-occupied; no renters
- Family must reside within Maricopa County
- Family must be income qualified; Participation in one of the following assistance programs will be used to verify income eligibility: Food stamps, Medicaid, WIC, Energy Assistance or Unemployment
- If the family is not enrolled in one of the assistance programs, household income will be considered, and their most recent tax return will be used to verify income eligibility
“SRP is deeply committed to improving water safety for the children and families of our community,” says Rori Minor, SRP community engagement strategist.” We’ve seen the need for water safety resources continue to increase this summer and SRP remains committed to responding to the needs of our community. Through our partnership with Child Crisis Arizona and others, we are able to provide quality resources and education to help keep children safe and comfortable around water.”
