KENNEBUNK – Organizers from Caring Unlimited say those who take the Atlantic Plunge are ‘freezin’ for a reason.’
The annual event, which benefits the domestic violence resource center, commences on Gooch’s Beach at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 5.
And while that is several days off, chances are pretty good that the air will be chilly – and the water, as well. According to the National Weather Service, the average ocean temperature in Portland in January is 34 degrees, and 40 degrees in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. There are no estimates for Kennebunk, but is is likely somewhere between the two.
Three long term weather forecasts differ only slightly in their long range predictions for the day.
AccuWeather is calling for a high of 35 degrees and cloudy, with a chance of snow.
The Weather Network is calling for a high of 30 and partly cloudy.
Time and Date us predicting scattered clouds and a high of 35.
Organizers predict a good turnout for the 18th annual event, which is a major fundraiser for Caring Unlimited and the services it provides.
First organized by a volunteer on New Year’s Day 2001, the Atlantic Plunge has grown to become a sustaining source for the programs and services offered by Caring Unlimited, which serves 3,000 people annually.
Funds raised at the Atlantic Plunge helps Caring Unlimited to continue to provide services like the 24-Hour Hotline, emergency shelter, transitional housing, support and education groups, legal advocacy, school-based education and advocacy and community education and training.
The registration fee is $25. Online registration closes at noon Jan. 3, but anyone who wishes may resister at the beach on the day of the event starting at 10:15 a.m.
Pledges, in the form of cash or checks, may be turned in at the event on Jan. 5, or may be collected securely online by creating a personalized fundraising page when you register.
More information, including online registration, and fundraising information, is available on the events page at caring-unlimited.org.
A storm reschedule date is Jan.6.
— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 780-9016 or twells@journaltribune.com.
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