100 cold water plunges raise more than $35K for Grand Manan, N.B., food bank

Kyle Mawer from Grand Manan, N.B. is on dip 99 of 100 cold plunges.

Kyle Mawar has turned his New Year’s resolution into something special around Grand Manan, N.B.

The island fisherman completed his 100th straight day of plunging into cold water on Thursday evening, raising more than $35,000 for the local food bank.

Mawar became a fan of swimming in cold open water while living in Australia, and wanted to kick off 2025 with a personal challenge at home.

“But I really didn’t want to do it just for me,” says Mawar. “I kind of thought this was a good opportunity to make it a campaign for something that matters. Our local food bank is always needing some extra support.”

The village’s food bank, operated by Action Ministries of Grand Manan, is experiencing a 25 per cent increase in demand since last year.

Mawar completed most of his plunges in the Bay of Fundy, with more people joining in as the number of dips progressed to 100.

“I really enjoy it, and you never regret it,” says Vincent Antworth, a friend of Mawar who accompanied him on several of the plunges. “You always feel really good after.”

Earlier this month, more than 100 people joined Mawar at Seal Cove Wharf to participate in the plunge by swinging into the bay by a rope. Benson’s Lobster Co. Ltd. made a donation of $100 for every person who went into the water.

“Everybody was just going for it,” says Mawer, who also credits students at the local school for embracing the cause. “There’s a good community spirit here on Grand Manan. Everybody gets on board.”

Donations for the island’s food bank can still be made.

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