More Than $140K Raised For Special Olympics At Polar Plunge In Cedar Beach

MILLER PLACE, NY — Around $140,000 was raised for Special Olympics New York at Brookhaven's annual Polar Plunge at Cedar Beach in Miller Place recently, town officials said.

Hundreds of supporters braved the icy waters of Long Island Sound on Nov. 22 to raise funds, jumping into the frigid water either as part of a team or individually, all to support athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Polar Plunge is one of Special Olympics New York’s most popular fundraising events, and while there is no minimum donation required to take part, plungers are encouraged to raise at least $25 to support the organization’s mission.

The organization relies solely on donations to operate, supporting athletes with the help of more than 5,000 coaches and 4,300 volunteers statewide.

The donations will directly support Special Olympics New York, which provides year-round training and competition opportunities to thousands of athletes at no cost to them or their families.

Councilwoman Jane Bonner, whose district includes the beach, plunged under the team name, “Frozen Eagles,” raising more than $8,000 in donations from colleagues, local businesses, and friends.

Bonner said she is always inspired "by the passion and resilience of Special Olympics athletes," and is proud "to be part of a community that shows up time and time again to support our neighbors."

"The kindness and generosity of our residents, businesses, and supporters ensure that these programs continue to change lives,” she added.