The New York Special Olympics’ annual Freezin’ for a Reason Polar Plunge raised over $86,000 as more than 100 people ran into the water at North Hempstead Becah Park, located at 175 W. Shore Road in Port Washington, on Saturday, March 7.
The town said freezing temperatures and dangerous ice conditions led officials to delay the event from its original Feb. 7 date.
The Freezin’ for a Reason Polar Plunge raises money for Special Olympics New York, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities across the state. Participants donate to take part in the plunge, with all proceeds supporting the organization’s programs.
The fundraising total eclipsed $86,664.27, far surpassing the $70,000 goal set by the organization, according to Special Olympics New York’s website. The Manhasset High School Unified Sports Team, part of the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools program, raised over $14,000 as part of the fundraising effort.
Erin Lipinsky of Great Neck, who has been involved with Special Olympics New York since 2004, was the event’s top individual fundraiser, raising $35,220, according to Special Olympics New York’s website.
North Hempstead Town Supervisor, Jennifer DeSena, who has participated in the Polar Plunge annually, walked into the water with Lipinsky and others one-by-one to ensure that everybody was able to participate in Saturday’s event.
The event is sponsored by the Town of North Hempstead, North Bay, H2M Architects and Engineers, Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, and Nestlé Health Science Foundation, with sponsor contributions also benefiting Special Olympics New York.
