Hundreds of people were freezin’ for a reason Saturday during the Monroe Police Department’s Penguin Plunge, which raises money for the state’s Special Olympics.

The event, held at Great Hollow Lake, helps provide funding that supports 13,000 athletes and unified partners who participate in Special Olympics Connecticut’s year-round training and competition in 27 sports, according to the plunge’s website.

Some dressed in costumes before running into the cold lake.

Last year, police say about 80 people participated. They say they were happy to top that number this year, and hope the event continues to expand.

“It’s always good to give back to the community and to charities such as this,” said Captain Keith White. “It’s a good feeling to see how many people show up and how many people support the Special Olympics here in Connecticut.”

The plunge raised $40,000. Before the event began, it had already collected $35,000 in donations alone.