Mattapoisett Selectmen have approved a request from resident Will Huggins to hold a polar plunge on New Year's Day.

Participants will take a quick dip into the icy waters at Town Beach for the event, which will be a fundraiser for local families battling cancer.

In a letter to Selectmen, Huggins said that his experiences fighting the disease have shown him how much it can cost.

Selectmen Tyler Macallister said, "I think it’s a great idea."

More information on the event will be posted on Mattapoisett's website.