By SABRINA BERNDT

Washington Daily News

A local nonprofit is calling on Washington to help raise money for a good cause by enjoying traditional barbecue.

On May 18, Daughters for Dads will be hosting a dinner fundraiser at the Piggly Wiggly parking lot in Washington. The nonprofit will be selling barbecue plates and baked goods to raise funds for local families fighting cancer.

After losing their fathers to cancer, Andrea Dixon, Allison Mallison and Lisa Cartwright founded Daughters for Dads to provide assistance to families coping with cancer.

“We wanted to give back to families and let them know that we’re here,” Dixon said. “We are just three people who want to help in ways that benefit the families.”

Although the nonprofit is based in Winterville, it supports families all over eastern North Carolina, including Washington. Saturday’s fundraiser will start at 1 p.m. and end when the food is gone. All proceeds are given to local families in need to help provide financial and transportation assistance, gift baskets, meals and anything the family may need, according to Dixon.

“Since we live in the area, we hear about local people who may need help,” said Dixon. “It’s mostly word-of-mouth, but some people contact us on Facebook. The money isn’t for a specific purpose, and that’s why we like it.”

Along with food fundraisers, the organization also hosts Daddy Daughter Dances and “Get Carded” events where guests bring a $25 gift card for gas or groceries. According to Dixon, the organization was able to create scholarships for college and high school students with the amount of support from fundraisers.

Saturdays’ fundraiser will feature barbecue plates — which include barbecue, coleslaw, potatoes, a roll and a drink — for $8, but other donations are accepted.

“One hundred percent of the proceeds are going to the families,” Dixon said. “We’re hoping for a huge turnout.”