27th annual community-supported plunge, held on Super Bowl Sunday, provides $35,000 each to three families caring for children with medically fragile conditions.
STONY POINT, N.Y. — The Stony Point Seals on Sunday donated a total of $105,000 to three local families with children suffering from medically fragile conditions, continuing a long-running community tradition of support for North Rockland families facing extraordinary challenges.
During the presentation, Seals members awarded three checks of $35,000 each to the families, describing the donation as the result of a broad community effort that stretches across local government, schools, businesses and volunteers. The awards were provided to the families of Skyar, Lizzie and Aria.
“This undertaking is only because of the team that we have to help everything we do,” a Seals representative said during the event. “This couldn’t happen without the amazing support of the community.”
Organizers said the annual effort has grown through support at the state, county and town levels, along with help from Stony Point departments including the highway and police departments. Kevin Nolan, local businessman and an annual volunteer and notable fundraiser for the organization, also highlighted the growing role of the North Rockland Central School District, whose students once again raised thousands of dollars to support local children and families.
Seals members thanked North Rockland Central School District Superintendent Kris Felicello, Board Member Richard Fernandez and district students for their continued involvement in the fundraiser.
Organizers also said involving students in charitable work at a young age helps reinforce the importance of community service and caring for neighbors in need. “It’s great at an early age to recognize that they’re not here just for themselves,” Seals member John Corcoran said. “They can help in tremendous ways.”
Town Supervisor Amy Conklin Stamm and NRCSD Supervisor Chris Felicello took turns praising the Seals and the wider North Rockland community for sustaining the annual event. Stamm called the fundraiser a testament to how local groups come together year after year to support families in need.
The Stony Point Seals noted that while this year’s polar plunge faced challenges because of this year’s cold spell, community turnout and support remained strong. Nobody actually jumped in the Hudson River this year – a first in 27 years, due to extreme cold. Still, approximately 500-700 people attended, and nearly 100 symbolically marched from the nearby parking lot to the shoreline of the Hudson River, flags waving bravely – in support of this year’s three families and children.
As was today, the focus remained squarely on the families receiving the donations — and on the volunteers, donors and supporters who made the gifts possible.
“Here we are today, grateful again to be able to help,” Seals member John Fox said during the initial introduction. “That’s what it’s about — generosity and charity.”
Learn more at the Stony Point Seals official website.
