Swimmers hit open water to raise money for Crisis Center of Tampa Bay

TAMPA, Fla. - For the first time since before the pandemic, a team of 20 open-water swimmers from across the state of Florida plunged into the bay Saturday morning to benefit the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay by completing a 6.2-mile swim from Harbour Island to Davis Island and back.  

It's a passion project for the Crisis Center's President and CEO Clara Reynolds, who was born and raised in Tampa and has been long-distance swimming in the city's waters since she was in her 20s.  

"I've done all sorts of fun swims, but it's wonderful to be able to highlight the water in Harbour Island & Davis Island," Reynolds added. "It's pristine swimming conditions, and we're so fortunate to be in such a beautiful area and with so many amazing people that are willing to support the mission of the crisis center."

The open-water swim raised money for the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. 

Its mission is to ensure no one ever has to feel like they are in a crisis alone. Ken Gibson, the director of marketing and public relations for the center, said their staff responds to more than 170,000 requests for help each year.

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"The past few years have been a challenge for people," Ken stated. "The pandemic, things have gone on, the stress of life, it takes a toll on people, so we're here though the 211 or 988 numbers, and we're here to talk or connect them to resources and help them through that challenge." 

File image of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

Reynolds added that a crisis looks different for everyone, so their programs try to cover every possible situation. 

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"We have programs for first responders, veterans, victims of sexual assault, we are our community's rape crisis center, we provide trauma counseling, emergency medical transportation systems, we even work at our Tampa international airport for travelers in crisis!" 

Each swimmer had a kayaker associated with them for safety reasons. 

Individuals and companies in the Bay Area can show their support by making a donation to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay through a special Strokes for Hope by clicking here.