Annual Polar Bear Dip

Habitat for Humanity Toronto supporters ring in the New Year with a cold splash in Lake Ontario

Hundreds of Torontonians will gather to ring in the New Year with a splash at the 4th Annual New Years Day Polar Bear Dip in support of Habitat for Humanity Toronto. "Dippers' will be diving into Lake Ontario at Sunnyside Beach on Thursday January 1st 2009. Participants and onlookers will enjoy live music and hot beverages to warm themselves up from Toronto's bitter climate.

Participants are collecting pledges to raise funds and awareness of the organization. Prizes will then be awarded to the top fundraisers. Last year, with the generous support of countless individuals and companies, over $16,000 was raised for Habitat for Humanity Toronto. The money raised for the 4th annual Polar Bear Dip will be helping to 'give a hand up, not a hand out' to the many hardworking Toronto families living in substandard housing in need of safe, affordable housing.

Over 65 dippers from all walks of life are anticipated to be participating in the 2009 New Year's Day Polar Bear Dip.

Thursday January 1st 2009, 12:00 p.m.

Sunnyside Park 1755 Lake Shore Boulevard West Toronto, Ontario Parking will be available.

Participants are scheduled to arrive at 11:00 a.m. and dipping into Lake Ontario at 12:00 p.m. Event organizers Mike Bonneveld and Ian MacLeod will be on hand for interviews.