Some $100,000 was raised locally during the month of February to support two local organizations helping those who are battling cancer and other illnesses.

Cancer Freeze’s Jennifer Davidson spoke to the Andalusia Lions Club on Wednesday and said that God has truly blessed their non-profit that helps locals battling cancer through their annual fundraiser on Lake Jackson.

Cancer Freeze raised more than $50,000 at its event Feb. 4. Meredith’s Miracles also raised more than $50,000 at its annual February event, Cookies with Characters, this past weekend.

Meredith’s Miracles’ Emily Yehling said she’s amazed every year that Covington County and neighboring areas step up to the plate.

“They are loving, caring people and they always find a way to help, to give,” she said. “I love living here.”

Davidson said that this year’s Cancer Freeze was the 11^th one and they were able to bless six recipients, but their blessing others doesn’t stop each year with the selected recipients from the Cancer Freeze event.

Davidson said they help others privately throughout the year.

“I can’t pay their doctors’ bills,” she said. “But we can help them get there or we can pay the light bill or house payment. It’s not $6,000 like we are able to give the recipients, but it helps.”

Davidson said Cancer Freeze doesn’t dictate how recipients spend the monies they receive.

“I’ve had someone ask if they could buy tires,” she said.

While Cancer Freeze on the first Saturday in February is their main fundraiser, they raise money throughout the year with various other fundraisers to allow them to continue to give to those who need it throughout the year.

Meredith’s Miracles helps provide lodging and transportation assistance for children who have to go out of town to receive specialized medical care.

Yehling said they were able to help 70 families in 2016, giving $70,000 to those in need.

Both events have grown in the past few years and the organizations have continued to reach more and more people who need the additional help.

“We are blessed in our community to have both of these organizations,” Yehling said.