Kick 2020 Off By Getting “Freezin’ For A Reason” At Annual Hamptons Polar Bear Plunge

Those unbothered by the cold, or willing to sacrifice being warm for a few minutes in support of a vital, amazing cause, won’t want to miss the East Hampton Food Pantries’ annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge.

“This fundraiser is one of the largest that benefits all of the East Hampton Food Pantries,” Vicki M. Littman, East Hampton Food Pantry Chairperson, relayed. “The money raised helps feed those in need in our community all year long.”

Registration opens on Wednesday, January 1 at 11:30 a.m. and the actual feat, which takes place at Main Beach in East Hampton, will occur at 1 p.m.

“We encourage everyone to come and support those who are plunging and are ‘freezin for a reason,'” Littman said. Those that take the Plunge will be rewarded with complimentary hot food and refreshments. There will also be prizes for plungers that don the best costumes, so make sure to get creative.

East Hampton Food Pantries was founded in 1992. The non-profit’s mission is simple – to end food insecurity in East Hampton, one meal at a time. East Hampton Food Pantries started with a sole site in East Hampton, but has added operations at East Hampton High School and in Amagansett to meet the community’s need. Each year East Hampton Food Pantries serves more than 300 families, as well as East Hampton High School students. The non-profit feeds more than 20,000 clients each year.

“There are seniors, children, and families who rely on the food pantries, especially during these cold winter months, and the Polar Bear Plunge helps to raise money that is desperately needed,” Littman noted.

Additionally, attendees can support the Pantries through the 50/50 raffle and apparel will be available for sale.

“Last year, we had over 400 participants and we are hoping this year’s Plunge exceeds that,” Littman concluded.

The admission fee for the East Hampton Food Pantries’ annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge is a $35 donation – which is just about the amount of money it takes to feed a child for a week ($25). $100 feeds a family for a week, while $5.000 feeds a family for a year.

For those not in the Hamptons on New Year’s Day, make sure to catch the action live on the Hamptons.com Main Beach Camera.

Main Beach is located at 101 Ocean Avenue in East Hampton. For more information, call 631-324-2300 or visit easthamptonfoodpantry.org.