Salem Kiwanis Fat Tuesday Fundraiser held on March 4 successfully raised $3,525 to support the work of FreeThree a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to serving trafficked, exploited, and at-risk populations in the tri-county area. FreeThree offers education to increase awareness of the realities of human tracking as well as outreach and direct support to human trafficking survivors. Shown are FreeThree Director of Operations Britney Leffler, left, and Executive Director Amy Bordonaro. (Photo courtesy of Debbie Leggett)

Salem Kiwanis raised thousands of dollars in support of non-profit FreeThree.

Kiwanis revived their fan favorite Fat Tuesday fundraiser for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this month on March 4 with all proceeds benefitting FreeThree, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to serving trafficked, exploited, and at-risk populations in the tri-county area. Past Kiwanis President Debbie Leggett said that the event, which featured food prepped and donated by over 23 “celebrity chefs,” including several local vendors, was attended by approximately 200 people. The event also featured a basket raffle.

In total the event raised $3,525 to benefit FreeThree’s work, and Salem Kiwanis and FreeThree thanked the area chefs and businesses who participated including: Myers Family Insurance, Joe Nelson, Harmony Hospice, Visiting Angels, Totally 80’s Ice Cream, Salty Mama’s Snacking Boards LLC; Jimmy’s Italian Specialties; Jalisco’s; Betty Brothers; the First Christian Church; Jimmy’s Roadhouse Burgers & Beef; Fleming House Family Recovery Center; Ezio’s Italian Restaurant; the Columbiana County Career Technical Center; Global Awakening Coffee Roasters; Kast Iron Soda Works; Farmer’s National Bank; The OG Ltd.; B.B. Rooners; Coaches Burger Bar; and Papa John’s Pizza.