Plunge raises money for Regional Hospice

By CHARITY Smith

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MONTREAL, Wis. - A group of people, known as the North Pole Bar Polar Bears took a plunge into freezing water on Saturday to raise funds for Regional Hospice.

The event is a spin-off off the Regional Hospice event which used to take place annually in Wakefield, but because of COVID has not been able to do so. The bears, decided to host their own event this year to raise money for hospice.

A total of 14 people jumped into a portable water tank that was set up in the parking lot of the Montreal Fire Department wearing a variety of different costumes. Prior to their jump, each participant announced who they were taking the plunge for, such as someone who the hospice service had benefitted.

Participants collected pledge donations in order to jump. Betty Zanutto brought in the most money with $1,865 in pledges. Jillian Johnson brought in the most money in the children's category with $1,138.

There were also raffles and a costume contest. Johnson won the children's category of the costume contest dressed as a sheep. Chuck Hagen won the adult category as Little Bo Peep.

In total, the event raised $8,684, exceeding their goal.

Matt Agee Volunteer coordinator and chaplain for Regional Hospice was on hand Saturday and thanked the group for all their hard work to help the organization. He said the event will be used to help cover the cost of both palliative and hospice care, including equipment placed in the patients' homes. Agee said the money will also be used to help patients get their final wish, through the Regional Hospice Catch a Dream program.

Agee called the money and their efforts "awesome," and said the most important thing is for people to know that Regional Hospice is available for people when they need its services.

The fire department not only provided the venue, but the water tank for the jumpers as well, and sold refreshments.

"It was a good time, and for a good cause," said Montreal fire chief Mark Haeger.