There was a crisp bite to the morning air on Feb. 18, as more than 40 people braved the icy water at the Central City Convention Center’s outdoor pool. The 4-H Teen Club hosted their annual Penguin Plunge to raise funds for their Backpack Program.
Mackenzie Pogue, 4-H agent at Muhlenberg County UK Extension Office, said this was the largest participation they’ve had in several years.
The program provides backpacks filled with food items that can easily be prepared by children. The backpacks are sent home each weekend with 180 students in the district who lack food security.
The 2023 Penguin Plunge raised $12,798 for the program, with a total of $15,708 raised this year. The cost to provide food for one student every weekend throughout the school year is $120.
Pogue said the goal is to raise $22,000 by August.
Central City Elementary School’s Jr. Beta Club teamed up with Central City Police to raise the highest dollar amount, with $3,577.
Greenville, Bremen and Muhlenberg South elementary schools had teams from their Jr. Beta Clubs jump in the cold water as well.
Donations to the program can be sent year-round by contacting Pogue at the Extension Office at 270-338-3124 or by mailing to the office at 3690 KY 1380, Central City, KY 42330.
Central City Police Chief Jason Lindsey braces for the cold.
Sgt. Justin Dockery donned a snorkel and mask for an impressive flip.
Sophia Davis looks like a super hero in her purple cape, with pigtails flying.
