The Durham Regional Police Service raised a record-breaking $57,451.85 for Special Olympics Ontario during the 2026 Polar Plunge held on March 28. A total of 191 participants braved the cold weather to support inclusive sport programs during the event, which saw its most successful fundraising outcome to date.
This year marked the sixth time members of the police service have participated in the annual fundraiser. The event is part of the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run, a program that has raised more than $46 million across the province since its inception in 1987. Proceeds from the plunge help support more than 23,000 Special Olympics athletes across Ontario.
Chief Peter Moreira, who was sworn in as the ninth Chief of Police for the service on March 24, 2023, led the first group of participants into the water. He was joined by the full command team, including Deputy Chiefs Chris Kirkpatrick and Kim Yeandle. The event was emceed by radio hosts Carolyn Ellis and Jerry Archer.
Before the plungers entered the water, attendees heard from Kyle Myers, a local athlete from Pickering. Myers, who is an active member of the local Special Olympics chapter, competes in basketball and five-pin bowling. The Durham region has a long history of supporting these initiatives, having previously hosted the 2008 Provincial Spring Games and the 2016 2nd Provincial School Championships.
The success of this year’s event continues a trend of growing community support. The 2025 Polar Plunge raised just over $40,000, which at the time surpassed the previous year’s total by more than $10,000.
