The 2023 Chatham-Kent Polar Plunge is already being hailed as a huge success.
The fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, January 21, has already surpassed its $40,000 goal. At last check over $73,000 had been donated.
"We are really excited about our plunge this year," said Chatham-Kent police sergeant and polar plunge organizer Jason Herder. "We've got over 130 registered for the event so far and counting. The numbers are just unreal, so we can't thank the community enough for the support of the event."
That makes it their most successful year ever. Herder adds that all the money raised goes to Special Olympics Ontario, and helps out local athletes.
"That organization helps those with intellectual disabilities be included in sport. Our local athletes still do programming and training for different programs and sports," he said.
This year's event is taking place at a new location, Sons of Kent Brewing with two plunge times, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Food trucks will be on-site, and there will be drinks for sale, and hot chocolate to help keep people warm.
You can still register to take the plunge or donate online at www.polarplunge.ca.