03/17/2026
BoatUS Foundation Accepting Applications for New Life Jacket Loaner Pilot Program
Local organizations, businesses encouraged to apply to expand access to essential boating safety equipment in their communities
The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is inviting marinas, parks, campgrounds, fire departments and other waterfront organizations to apply for a new pilot of its Life Jacket Loaner Program that will test digital checkout technology to make borrowing life jackets easier for boaters. Applications close March 27.
Participating sites will test options including 24/7 unstaffed loaner boards, staffed distribution sites, or secure digital lockers with automated checkout.
“These pilot models represent the next evolution of our long-standing Life Jacket Loaner Program”, said Tiffany Gonzalez, BoatUS Foundation Program Manager. “They allow us to connect with sites and borrowers in smarter ways, helping us better understand community needs, best practices, and program impact.”
The pilot is funded through a $375,000 grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Organizations interested in hosting the this unique life jacket loaner program can apply here before March 27.
