Over 60 swimmers plunged into a freezing pool at Lido Ponty on the weekend (Saturday 21st January) to take part in a challenge and raise funds to help people experiencing homelessness.
The swimmers were taking part in an Icebreaker challenge event for national homelessness charity Crisis at the National Lido of Wales – Lido Ponty in Pontypridd.
While the pool is usually heated, the heaters were off for the challenge and the temperature was just 14°C as they entered the water, many wearing fancy dress!
Ashella Lewis, Director of Crisis Skylight South Wales, said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who took part today to help end homelessness in South Wales. I can confirm, it was extremely cold!
“It’s all been good fun – and the fancy dress was brilliant – but there’s a serious cause behind this.
“At Crisis Skylight South Wales, we’re still working tirelessly to help people end their homelessness – and it’s through people taking part in events like these and raising funds that we’re able to continue providing this vital support for people who urgently need it.”
Helen Radia, Fundraising Director at Crisis, said “It was wonderful to have so many people joining in to help us raise money for people facing homelessness. Everyone showed real dedication getting in the cold pool and we loved some of the costumes!
“We’re really grateful to our wonderful fundraisers. Their efforts will help us be there for everyone who needs us, especially as more and more people are pushed into poverty and put at risk of homelessness as the cost of living crisis continues. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part.”
