Here’s how much money the 2020 Myrtle Beach Polar Plunge raised for Special Olympics SC
Another year, another $100,000-plus raised for Special Olympics South Carolina.
Approximately 900 people braved cold weather and took a plunge into the nippy Atlantic Ocean on Saturday, and their efforts helped raise more than $100,000 for the charity.
“The cold temps and little bit of drizzling rain couldn’t keep us from smiling,” the Horry County Sheriff’s Office said in a Sunday Facebook post. “We are a blessed bunch at the Horry County Sheriff’s Office.”
Organizers with Polar Plunge South Carolina were still calculating the funds but confirmed the total was more than $100,000 for the second year in a row. The Polar Plunge, which requires participants to raise at least $50 in pledges before taking an icy dip in the ocean in a show of support for the cause, raised $108,000 in 2019 and $97,000 in 2018.
The “Freezin’ for a Reason” Polar Plunge took place for the 15th year at Sands Ocean Club in Myrtle Beach. The event was hosted by the SC Law Enforcement Torch Run.
“Thank you to everyone from our Department for bracing the cold and plunging for a good cause!” Myrtle Beach police posted to Facebook on Saturday.
According to the event’s website, the Polar Plunge is the largest local fundraiser for Special Olympics South Carolina. While the Myrtle Beach event for many years was the lone event, other parts of the state have joined in on the plunge to help raise funds, the website states. Since 2016, the annual plunge has grown to include games, live music, food, dancing, cheering and other activities.
Local law enforcement personnel, first responders, area high school students and others were among the participants.
“What an honor and privilege to be part of such a great, amazing cause!” the Horry County Sheriff’s Office said in its Facebook post.
This story was originally published February 2, 2020 at 6:44 PM.
