By Georgia Sparling | Sippican Week
MATTAPOISETT — Although there wasn’t a drop of precipitation from the sky on Christmas morning, a bunch of people in Mattapoisett got all wet.
Some wore bathing suits and others festive costumes for Helping Hands and Hooves’ 12thChristmas Day Swim at Town Beach.
The nonprofit provides therapeutic riding lessons to disabled adults, and its annual polar plunge raises funds needed for spring lessons at Seaside Farm on Aucoot Road.
More than 100 onlookers and 70 swimmers turn out for the annual Helping Hands and Hooves Christmas Day Swim. The benefit icy swim raises money for therapy programs for developmentally disabled adults.
Debbi Dyson, who co-founded Helping Hands and Hooves with Julie Craig, said this year’s icy dip was a success.
“The turnout was great. We had a lot of people,” said Dyson. “It’s a nice way for families to get together after opening presents.”
Buoyed by sun and a high tide, around 70 people jumped into the water while at least 100 watched.
“It’s quick. We don’t hang out too long,” said Dyson.
The event draws a mixture of local folks, and this year even had participants who originate from the Dominican Republic and New Zealand. Kids young and old also took on the challenge.
“A couple of little ones got money in their stockings from Santa for the swim,” said Dyson.
This year swimmers ranged in age from 5 to 72.
Everyone is asked to donate $15 to participate, but the Helping Hands fan club is pretty generous, said Dyson.
“It’s amazing. I can’t tell you how many people go above and beyond that,” she said.
Donations reached $3,000 on Christmas morning, and all proceeds will go to the organization.
