For the fourth year in a row, participants plunged into the Bay of Quinte to raise funds for Special Olympics Ontario.
“It has grown exponentially,” Belleville Police inspector and organizer of the plunge, Sheri Meeks, tells media. “I am so proud that it looks like we’re going to hit our $30,000 goal for the city of Belleville.”
A total of 9 teams took part in this year’s polar plunge with over 80 participants going into the water. It’s the most people taking part in the plunge in Belleville since the event began.
Meeks was asked what she would attribute to the increase in participants and teams.
“I think it’s probably a couple of things. One is the cause and it’s near and dear to a lot of people’s hearts to donate to something that across the province, we need to draw more attention to,” Meeks said.
“We’ve got some exceptional athletes here… (Some are) competing out west and they’re competing provincially very soon. I also think it’s just this event is gaining momentum, the more people hear about it, the more the word gets spread. People decide, hey, I want to try that. I either want to plunge or want to donate some money to help out.”
Belleville Police Inspector and organizer of the Polar Plunge – Belleville, Sheri Meeks, speaking to the crowd at the Herchimer Boat Launch. March 1, 2024. (Photo: Zach McGibbon/Quinte News)
Among the teams that participated in this year’s event include but aren’t limited to Belleville Police, Hastings-Quinte Paramedics, Belleville Fire & Emergency Services and Belleville Probation and Parole.
A goal of $30,000 locally was set for this year’s plunge. Meeks says they are on their way to meeting that goal.
“We’re up to over $27,000 right now. So my goal is $30,000 and I honestly think it will get there because people will still come in and we have cash donations today. I have no doubt we’ll get there.”
Those looking to donate can head over to the Polar Plunge website.
The “Belleville Police Polar Bears” coming out of the water at the Herchimer Boat Launch. March 1, 2024. (Photo: Zach McGibbon/Quinte News)
