PELHAM – A Texas Roadhouse fundraiser to raise money for area veterans has generated more than $2,000.

In October, the Pelham restaurant began a fundraiser in partnership with American Legion Matthew Blount Post 555 to collect donations to be turned into gift cards for veterans. Residents donated by going to Texas Roadhouse and letting a host or manager know that they wanted to donate. Those who donated $5 or more and got a free appetizer.

A check for $2,633.48 from Texas Roadhouse Collection Cards Fundraiser was presented to the American Legion Matthew Blount Post 555 during a monthly meeting on Thursday, Jan. 3.

Donations were accepted from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31.

The gift cards will be distributed in gift bags by Post 555 to veterans during Military Appreciation Night at a University of Alabama hockey game on Feb. 9 at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena. The purpose is to provide a meal for military personnel and veterans.

Post 555 member Kenneth Paschal said the fundraiser is a way to continue to show support for veterans even after Veterans Day, which was Nov. 11.