Sixth Annual Elks Plunge Moves to Asbury Due To Belmar Devastation

Due to ongoing construction on Belmar's oceanfront, the annual Miracle Plunge will move to Asbury Park for a March 16 dip in the Atlantic.

The event, hosted by the New Jersey Elks, will benefit the Children's Specialized Hospital, and hundreds are expected to brave the very cold ocean waters to raise money for the hospital.

"Freezin' for a Reason" will take place in Asbury Park, since normal venue Belmar was hit hard by Hurricane Sandy and Ocean Avenue remains closed as a construction zone.

The Children's Hospital plunge's check-in starts at 10 a.m. and the plunge is at 12:00 p.m. at Asbury Park Convention Hall.

To sign up for the Miracle Plunge, visit: www.miracleplunge2013.kintera.org or call 732-684-8048.

Last year's plunge in Belmar drew 300 participants from all over the state. The event raised $100,000 to benefit the Elks of New Jersey’s Camp Moore, Children’s Specialized Hospital and the Cooley’s Anemia Foundation. Specifically, the proceeds help strengthen the fight against thalassemia, support specialized health care for children with special needs, organizers said.

“We’re excited for another great turnout this year,” said Bryon Masterson, Southeast District Elks Special Children’s Committee Chairman and Chairman of the Elks Miracle Plunge in a prepared statement. “The water is chilly and the winds might blow, but volunteers have fun knowing they are helping children.”

Children's Specialized Hospital has locations in Bayonne, Clifton, Egg Harbor Township, Mountainside, Toms River, Fanwood, Hamilton, New Brunswick and Roselle Park as well as outreach programs in many communities. Visit www.childrens-specialized.org for more information.