Polar Bear Dippers ring in a new decade and bring clean water to communities in Rwanda
Courage Polar Bear Dip surpasses fundraising target of $120,000 for World Vision's clean water projects
MISSISSAUGA, Jan. 1, 2020 /CNW/ - Thousands of excited spectators descended on Bronte Beach in Oakville today to cheer on the over 700 courageous dippers as they took the icy plunge into Lake Ontario and a new decade, with a goal of raising funds for World Vision's clean water projects in Rwanda.
Participants surpassed the fundraising target of $120,000, raising over $125,000 with donations still coming in.
This year marked the 35th time that Todd and Trent Courage, along with their team of brave supporters, have plunged into the frigid waters on New Year's Day, and the 25th year of partnering with World Vision.
"The commitment the Courage Brothers show by holding this event year after year is so inspiring and we are honoured to partner with them," said Sumair Mirza, Chief Operating Officer at World Vision Canada and second time dipper. "Over 600 million people in the world lack access to clean water, and the funds raised today will assist communities in Rwanda to address that."
The Courage Polar Bear Dip for World Vision, the largest and the longest-running charity event of its kind in Canada, is held annually on January 1st, where chill-seeking dippers raise money for the privilege of plunging into the icy-cold waters of Lake Ontario.
"It has been amazing to see this event continue to grow each year for 35 years," says Todd Courage, co-founder of the Dip. "We want to thank all of the participants and supporters who came out today. We had a record turn out and the funds raised today will go a long way towards helping improve the health and safety of children and their families by providing clean water in communities in Rwanda."
Proceeds from the event have been contributing to World Vision water projects around the world since 1995 and almost $2 million has been raised in total. World Vision brings clean water to one new person every 10 seconds and by doing so also equips communities with sanitation and hygiene programs.
Quick Facts:
- Over the years, the dip has welcomed over 10,000 jumpers.
- Since 2015, World Vision has provided access to clean water to more than 2.3 million people for consumption and sanitation.
- World Vision's clean water initiatives have helped save the lives of thousands of children from water-related diseases caused by contaminated water, poor sanitation and lack of hygiene.
Additional Resources:
Courage Polar Bear Dip photos: HERE
Web links: polarbeardip.ca
Social media: @PolarBearDip; #PolarBearDip
About World Vision
World Vision is a relief, development and advocacy organization working to create lasting change in the lives of children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, World Vision is dedicated to working with the world's most vulnerable people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.
For more information, visit worldvision.ca or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
SOURCE World Vision Canada
Joanne Legin, Communications Officer, World Vision Canada. [email protected], Tel: 905-565-6200 ext. 2523, Mobile: 416-738-7720
Share this article