The IHOP of Dawsonville was among 1,500 of the restaurants nationwide that offered free pancakes as part of National Pancake Day on March 1 — an event that benefitted Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

According to a news release, IHOP hoped the program would raise $2.3 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a charity that raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals, as well as other worthy local causes.

Guests enjoyed a free stack of buttermilk pancakes. The restaurant encouraged those who visited to donate what they could to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals or other worthy causes.

Guests could also purchase “Miracle Balloons” for $1 and $5 each to hang around the restaurant in support of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

IHOP President Jean Birch stated that the annual event “provides our guests a fun opportunity to support the efforts of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.”

In addition, Birch stated: “Last year we surpassed our goal of raising $5 million in our first five years, and this year we are raising the bar again with our most ambitious fundraising goal to date.”

According to its Web site, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals across North America, “which, in turn, use the money where it’s needed the most.”

For more information about National Pancake Day, visit www.ihoppancakeday.com.