LAKE WYNONAH -- In Schuylkill County hundreds of people braved the cold weather, and cold waters on Sunday to raise money to help children in Pennsylvania.
The Lake Wynonah athletic group hosted its third annual Leap in the Lake near Schuylkill Haven, hoping to raise thousands of dollars for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Folks from all over northeastern and central Pennysylvania took the plunge.
The frigid 41 degree water temperature didn't stop people from joining in.
"It's really cold, you wouldn't think it is when you get in there, it takes your breath away for a second, it's really tough," said Bob Dusel of Port Carbon.
"It's 41 degrees, so it felt like needles!" said Thadius Schantzenbach of Lake Wynonah.
"It was a little chilly. I think we're a little crazy for doing it," said Debbie Miller Bath.
Dozens of people paid $15 for their plunge registration.
Then one by one, some dressed in their best St. Patrick's Day attire, took turns taking the leap into the lake.
Even though the plunge was slightly painful, it was ok, they said, because it was all to help children who are sick and may not ever get better.
"All proceeds from today's event goes to Make a Wish Foundation. This is the third year in a row we are giving to make a wish," said David Tyson of the Lake Wynonah athletic group.
The Make a Wish Foundation grants wishes to children who are terminally ill.
Participants said coming out in the middle of winter and taking the plunge in freezing waters, is worth it because it's helping put smiles on the faces of hundreds of children in our area.
Folks also said they are glad to see such a great show of support from the community.
"Wonderful, I'm glad to see there's such a great turn out. There's more people here this year than last year," said Miller.
Organizers said they raised $1,500 last year from the plunge, and hoped to break the $2,000 mark after this year's leap.