Polar bear swim put the freeze on hunger

The event, organized by Algoma University, saw more than 1,200 canned food items and over $3,600 in cash donations collected

Students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members collected canned goods and raised funds for local food pantries.Photo supplied

Food insecurity was the target on Saturday as group of enthusiastic volunteers took an icy plunge in Sault Ste. Marie as part of the Bon Soo Winter Carnival Polar Bear Swim ‘Hunger Freeze’.

The event, organized by Algoma University, saw more than 1,200 canned food items and over $3,600 in cash donations collected. The donations were made possible with the support of the Sault community and local business partners. Over twenty participants braved the frigid waters, including Ward 1 and 2 city councillors Luke Dufour and Sonny Spina.

“It was a great day to jump in the water for an important cause with great friends at Algoma University, Bon Soo and the City of Sault Ste. Marie,” said Spina. “Thank you to everyone that came out and supported the Hunger Freeze to fight food insecurity in our community. A big shout out to all the local businesses who stepped up to collect donations, make donations, and help those in need - I can’t wait for next year.”

“We are thrilled that we have been able to raise such an incredible amount to support those in need in our community,” added Student Life Manager Rachel Rankin. “Sault Ste. Marie really stepped up and helped us to lay the foundation for a great annual event and we are so grateful and excited to start planning for next February.”

Community Partners