Polar Bear dip raises $35,000

Pictured above is Maiysn's Caped Canucks as they contemplate how cold the water might be. Maiysn's team was the top fundraising team for the event.

(Southpoint Sun Photos)

By Deanna Bertrand

KINGSVILLE – Even the warmer temperatures this past weekend couldn’t keep Lake Erie from being icy cold for swimming, but that didn’t deter the brave Polar Bear Dippers from taking on the challenge of a little “shock and thaw.”

Nearly a dozen teams consisting of about 80 people gathered on Cedar Island Beach Saturday, Feb. 22 at 12 p.m. after gathering pledges and fundraising for the 20th annual event benefiting Childcan and ACCESS.

“We are very thankful for the support,” said Jennifer Watts, Community Engagement for Childcan. “It really was just an incredible response.”

The 20th annual event, which also included a banquet, raised approximately $35,000.

Childcan is a community-based charity which has been supporting children and their families through childhood cancer since 1974.

ACCESS helps the most vulnerable in Essex County receive the support they need from recreational to mental health crises and homelessness.

Chris Gatto was the winner of the Air Canada trip for two. Grace Tadgell was the top fundraiser and Maiysn’s Caped Canucks was the top fundraising team.