It’s coming to the point in the year where we all announce resolutions that we don’t keep. So why not start with one that’s easy too? Albeit, it might take a small act of bravery. On January 1, across the state of Rhode Island, thousands of people will be freezing their chilly-willy-penguin-bones to support some of the best causes around. Some might call the act “crazy,” however these people are starting the New Year with an act of bravery and charity for their fellow man. In a world where things are upside down, they are taking the Plunge into the iciest of waters to support society with a smile and a few shivers.
Ice baths date back to ancient Greece, Persia, and Rome. The dip into extreme cold water is still practiced and has been used to relieve pain, decrease inflammation, improve mental health, and boost the immune system. Rhode Island has added to these benefits by creating a way of taking donations for worthy causes for over 40 years. Whether you’re crossing an item off your bucket list, creating a fundraising team, flying solo in a donation to charity, or just there to cheer on your fellow heroes, here’s a list of plunges to partake in:
Barrington-
-New Year’s Day Dip in the Bay
Where: Barrington Beach
Cause: Barrington Lions Club Scholarship Fund
Registration: 12pm
Plunge: 1pm
Donation: 25$
The 3rd annual New Years Dip in the Bay will help raise funds for local food shelter Tap-In, as well as the Barrington Lions Club Scholarship Fund. The plunge is requesting at least a 25$ donation.
Charlestown:
-Annual Ocean House Marina Polar Plunge
Where: Charlestown Town Beach
Cause: Rhode Island Center Assisting Those in Need
Registration: 11:30am
Plunge: 12pm
Donation: Any amount.
This is the 15th year of the Ocean House Marina Polar Plunge. This cause offers dignity, food, clothing, and essential support to neighbors, primarily in Washington County. A $200 donation can provide a week of groceries for four families. Tiered donations provide varieties of goodies as well as polar plunge hats. After the plunge feel free to join the party at Breachway Grill for food, fun, and live music provided by Fine Fellas!
Narragansett
-Pier Plunge
Where: Narragansett Town Beach
Cause: Narragansett Lion’s Club
Registration: Not listed.
Plunge: 12pm
Donation: $20
This is the 15th annual Pier Plunge – some years include over 2,000 participants. The Lions Club partners to improve health and wellbeing, strengthen communities, and support those in need.The first 350 registrants will receive beach towels, and there will be a prize for best female and male costumes. After the plunge feel free to join the party at Pelly’s Place. Though the registration time is not listed, it is recommended to come early.
-Special Olympics New Years Day Plunge
Where:Roger Wheeler State Beach (Sand Hill Cove) Narragansett.
Cause: The Special Olympics.
Registration: 10am
Plunge: 12pm main plunge. / 12:30 family friendly plunge.
Donation: Any Amount
The Special Olympics New Years Day Plunge is the oldest grassroots freezing fundraiser. Over the past 43 years this plunge has raised over $3.5 million. This year includes prizes for the best costume as well as prizes based on donations, such as shirts, towels, hoodies, and beanies.
Newport-
-Polar Plunge Challenge
Where: Easton Beach Newport
Cause: A Wish Come True
Registration: Not listed
Plunge: 12pm
Donation: 25$
This is the 22nd annual plunge sponsoring A Wish Come True, the oldest wish-granting organization in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The Charity raises funds and awareness for its mission to help children ages 3-18 who are battling life-threatening illnesses. The organization has raised more than $73,000 to support its families. Tiered donations include prizes such as a hat, or hoodie. Though the registration is not listed, it is recommended to come early.
Tiverton:
-Penguin Plunge
Where: Grinnell’’s Beach Tiverton
Cause: Tiverton Public Library
Registration: 11:45am
Plunge: 12pm
Donation: Any
This 14th Annual Penguin Plunge will have participants plunging into the Sakonnet River at noon. Whether plunging or cheerleading, any donations will be accepted to help support the Tiverton Public Library.