Jo Batters, left, is presented with raffle prizes by Chesapeake Trading Company owner Lynda Boettner. Chesapeake Trading Company hosted the SOS Sink or Swim raffle again this year, dedicating window space throughout the summer to help showcase SOS’s mission of teaching children to swim and be safe in the water. To learn more, visit sossinkorswim.org.
SOS Sink or Swim recently wrapped up its summer raffle by presenting its prizes to winner Jo Batters. The raffle was hosted by Chesapeake Trading Company in St. Michaels, Md., who devoted a display window for the fourth consecutive year to encourage support of SOS.
This year’s display featured a crab pot filled with gift certificates and items donated by businesses throughout St. Michaels. In addition to a program T-shirt and champagne provided by SOS, prizes were donated by Hambleton Inn; Theo’s Steak, Sides & Spirits; Carpenter Street Saloon; Gourmet By the Bay; Justine’s Ice Cream Parlour; Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond; Come By Chance; Chesapeake Bay Outfitters; Chesapeake Trading Company; Patriot Cruises; and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum.
“SOS Sink or Swim is made possible through support from residents, foundations and local businesses,” said SOS Executive Council President Libby Moose. “We are grateful to our community and give special thanks to Chesapeake Trading Company for helping to spread the message that swimming is a life skill that all ages should master.”
SOS Sink or Swim’s mission is to ensure that all children know how to swim and be safe in the water by providing them with free swim lessons. Partnering with Talbot County Parks & Rec, three two-week sessions are provided each summer for children ages 18 months to 18 years. This year, a limited pilot program for adults was added. A total of 1,175 lessons were provided this past summer, bringing the number of free lessons provided by SOS since 2014 to 3,875.
SOS Sink or Swim is docked at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. To learn more, or to donate to SOS, visit sossinkorswim.org or send a check to: SOS Sink or Swim, 606A N. Talbot Street, Ste 109, St. Michaels, MD 21663.