THE COLD IS CALLING.
Back for its second year, Hammer Plunge invites the bold and bighearted to step into the cold for a cause that matters.
Take the plunge into the icy water of Lake Ontario, thaw out in our winter village stacked with hot food and entertainment and get cozy with a community guaranteed to warm you to your bones.
Every plunge supports Hamilton General Hospital, helping ensure patients, families and health care teams have the resources they need when every second counts.
JUMP IN!
LOOK FORWARD TO
A winter experience packed with excitement, community, and memories.
Help Us Hit Our Goal
Every icy plunge and dollar raised help fuel the cause
TEAMS
WHY PLUNGE?
Hamilton General Hospital is home to some of Ontario’s most specialized and lifesaving care.
As the regional hub for the most complex and urgent care, the hospital serves a community of more than three million people. As our region grows, so does the demand for this extraordinary care.
That’s where you come in.
Every dollar raised through Hammer Plunge flows straight from the shoreline to the bedside. Your fundraising puts critical tools into capable hands.
It makes sure the hospital is resourced and ready for your neighbour, your loved one, yourself, when it matters most.
Ambassador story
Meet Chandler, your 2026 Hammer Plunge Patient Ambassador! This November, he'll be leading participants into the icy waters of Lake Ontario to support Hamilton General Hospital and the Regional Rehabilitation Centre. It's a cause that couldn't be more personal. Just a few years ago, Chandler was the patient depending on the exceptional care, specialized rehabilitation and donor-funded equipment that helped him take his first steps toward recovery.
READ HIS STORY
FAQs
Questions before you dive in?
Spectators are welcome and encouraged to join in the day. Whether or not you choose to take an icy dip, you will need to register to attend the event.
Absolutely. Spectators are encouraged to join and cheer participants on from the shoreline, however, they are also required to register for the event.
All plungers must be at least 12 years old. Participants under the age of 18 must sign the event participant waiver and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on event day. Waivers are included as part of the online registration process and will also be available on event day.
Funds support the highest-priority needs at Hamilton General Hospital, helping provide the tools, technology, research, and resources needed for exceptional patient care. Learn more about your support at work.
Participant safety is our top priority. The event includes trained staff, volunteers, lifeguards, paramedics, clearly marked plunge areas, and emergency response procedures. Additionally, we recommend plungers wear water shoes as the beach is rocky. See our full suite of safety precautions here.
SPONSORS
Hammer Plunge wouldn’t make a splash without the businesses and community partners who dive in with us. Thank you to our sponsors:
Presenting sponsor
Contact Us
Have a question we haven’t answered yet? Reach out! We’re here to help.
For event and participant questions:
Please email us at FoundationEvents@hhsc.ca
Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation
1 King St. West, Suite 702, Hamilton, ON L8P 1A4
Mailing: Box 739, LCD 1, Hamilton, ON L8N 3M8