Community Honors Kyrie Larry with Grant to YMCA for Water Safety

The Palm Beach County community came together to honor the memory of Kyrie Larry, a three-year-old boy with autism who tragically drowned earlier this year, by strengthening the YMCA's commitment to water safety through a significant grant. The event, held at the YMCA of the Palm Beaches’ Aquatic Center, saw the Boca West Children’s Foundation present a $10,000 donation to the Y’s Adaptive Swimming Program. This program is crucial for teaching children with physical and cognitive challenges, including autism, essential water safety skills.

During the ceremony, YMCA President and CEO Timothy Coffield presented a commemorative plaque of Kyrie to his grandfather, Deputy Kenneth Torrence, symbolizing the community's ongoing dedication to preventing such tragedies. The grant will directly benefit the Adaptive Swimming Program, which is designed to equip children with the skills necessary to navigate water safely, a critical need for children on the autism spectrum who are at a higher risk of drowning.

Notable figures from the community, including Palm Beach County District 3 Commissioner Joel Flores and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Colonel Eric Coleman, attended the event, highlighting the widespread support for the initiative. The YMCA's Adaptive Swim Program, now forever linked to Kyrie’s memory, underscores the importance of providing all children, regardless of their abilities, with the opportunity to learn life-saving water safety skills.

The YMCA of the Palm Beaches has been a pillar in the community for over a century, offering programs that cater to the needs of children, seniors, and families. The organization's mission to foster a safe and nurturing environment for all, irrespective of financial ability, is further exemplified by this initiative. For more information on the YMCA's programs and how to support their mission, visit https://www.ymcapalmbeaches.org.