KDHamptons bundled up to watch brave-hearted Hamptonites took the Polar Bear Plunge last weekend at Cooper’s Beach in Southampton.  to raise money for the Human Resources of the Hamptons‘ food pantry, a nonprofit which feeds 350 local families, and provides children, adults, senior citizens and veterans with the basic necessities, such as food, clothing and heating oil to warm their homes.  Fittingly, the 13th annual Plunge took place on one of the coldest days of December.

Those willing to freeze their tushies off in the name of charity paid a $25 fee and signed a waiver. The other option, according to Human Resources of the Hamptons Director Hilton Crosby, is to raise at least $25 in pledges for the nonprofit to waive the registration fee. Last year’s event attracted between 400 and 450 people and raised approximately $85,000 for the organization. Polar plungers including Mayor Mark Epley dressed as Santa, mermaids, elves, and pirates as they dove into the chilly waters!