The pancakes are free at IHOP Tuesday, but the chain hopes customers will "flip it forward for kids."

From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time Tuesday, International House of Pancakes has its 14th annual free pancake giveaway with participating restaurants giving away free short stacks of buttermilk pancakes. Some locations will have extended hours until 10 p.m.

The dine-in only deal is limited to one short stack per person while supplies last. Prices vary, but a short stack of three pancakes usually costs $5.79.

While in the past, the Glendale, California-based chain called the annual fundraiser promotion “National Pancake Day,” the March 12 event has a new name – “IHOP Free Pancake Day.”

But the mission of raising money to help children battling critical illnesses hasn’t changed.

“Every year we look forward to kicking off our IHOP Free Pancake Day – Flip it Forward for Kids campaign because it combines the two things we love most – pancakes and helping our communities,” Stephanie Peterson, company spokeswoman, said in a statement.

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The fundraiser supports Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Shriners Hospitals for Children.

IHOP is taking donations in a few ways to reach a $4 million fundraising goal.

During Tuesday’s event, customers are encouraged to make donations, and it’s also the last day to show support by purchasing wall icons. For buying a $5 icon, get a coupon for $5 off a $10 or more purchase to use at participating restaurants.

Through the end of March, customers can make a cash contribution at restaurants or add a donation to charity partners on their tab.

And through April 14, $1 from the sale of the new “Oreo Oh My Goodness” pancake stack or breakfast combo will go towards the charities. The special pancake was created by 6-year-old Brody Simoncini, of Worcester, Massachusetts.

IHOP invited kids who were treated at a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital to submit their best pancake idea, the company said. Brody’s winning creation is a stack of two buttermilk pancakes with Oreo cookie pieces baked in and topped with cupcake icing, more cookie pieces and whipped topping.

Learn more at www.ihoppancakeday.com.

Another pancake freebie

Metro Diner has a pancake freebie of its own Tuesday.

The growing chain with nearly 70 locations nationwide says it is celebrating National Pancake Day on March 12 with a “free stack of six sweet and fluffy silver dollar pancakes for every child under the age of 12.”

No minimum purchase is required. Find locations at www.metrodiner.com.

Follow Kelly Tyko on Twitter: @KellyTyko