Long Beach Polar Bears Raise $450,000

The Long Beach Polar Bears, those brave and crazy people who run into the ocean in the middle of the winter, raised an estimated $450,000 this year for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The annual plunge is one of the biggest events during the year in Long Beach. Officials estimate that more than 10,000 people took the plunge this year. Since it was founded in 2000, the Super Bowl Splash has raised $5.6 million for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants the wishes of children who are fighting life-threatening diseases.

"It’s amazing to watch the energy, joy and enthusiasm of the Long Beach Polar Bears and the Long Beach community in their support of wish kids," said Phil Lussier, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Metro New York and Western New York, in a release. "More than 500 children with critical illnesses in our area have had their wishes come true because of their commitment and generosity. We cannot thank them enough."

Photos: Jennifer L. Gonzeles