AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) - The Center for Women and Community at UMass Amherst is raising awareness and funds for a violence-free community in their annual 'Chilly Challenge.' Participants "got chilly" in Puffer's Pond by either dipping in a toe or braving the full body plunge--then enjoying a warm cup of chili on the beach. The challenge began in 2021 as a way to bring the community together during COVID-19 isolation but continues to support free Sexual Assault support, advocacy, and prevention services in Hampshire County. Director of the center Gesilla Zuniga told 22News, "Today we're gathering to support survivors and a violence-free community. What we're hoping to do is bring the community together, raise awareness, and raise some funds as well." The plunge raised over $3,500 for survivor support and saw over 80 participants face the chill of Puffers Pond. Local News Headlines Holiday craft fair Sunday at Gary Rome Hyundai Annual ‘Chilly Challenge’ in Amherst raises money for sexual assault support Community Thanksgiving dinner held at Boys and Girls Club in Springfield Rising costs add stress to holiday shopping and dinners WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.