Temperatures were in the 40s as Polar Plunge participants in Long Beach went for a frosty swim on Sunday.

The Bright Eye Beer Company sponsored a breakfast fundraiser where more than 120 gift baskets donated by local businesses were sold for charity.

The event held a special meaning for Masha Benitez. The 19-year-old from Long Beach had to undergo life-saving surgeries as a child and was even the recipient of a Make-A-Wish Foundation donation when she was younger.

Benitez was out this weekend selling tickets to the event with the hope of paying it forward and helping other children have their wishes come true.

Approximately $25,000 was raised in total.  

MORE: Long Beach teen raises money for Make-A-Wish Foundation after pair of lifesaving surgeries