A fitness class has raised $2,100 to help the Chewstick Foundation get back on its feet after the fire of two weeks ago.

The arts charity lost its space and belongings in the major blaze, and has appealed for the community to help rise from the ashes.

Fierce Funk Fitness, also known as F3, responded by holding a special fundraising event on last Tuesday at Somersfield Academy gymnasium called Soca vs Reggae. It attracted close to 100 fitness enthusiasts who paid admission to attend the event and donated more.

Attendees were encouraged to dress in their Cup Match colours while exercising to reggae and soca music played by DJ Record Spin for more than an hour.

The fundraiser was the idea of F3 creator, Jasmine Desilva who has used her fitness platform in the past to donate to various causes such as Relay for Life, Melange Breast Cancer Charity and the Edwards’ Kidney fundraiser.

She said in a press release: “F3 is not just a fitness class, it’s a moment of release, a moment of self-focus, it’s a sweaty hour of fun. Pairing this with the ability to raise money for charities and individuals in need within the community will never get old.

“I was devastated to hear about Chewstick’s loss in the fire and I immediately decided to use my class as a vehicle to raise funds for them. Chewstick is a fantastic organisation where so many Bermudians go to express themselves and I hope the money we raised helps them restore their space.”

Gavin Smith, Chewstick executive director, said: “It is wonderful to see so many members of the community speaking up and moving to action to donate funds to the Chewstick Foundation at this critical time.

“We cannot operate without donations from the public and corporate community, and as a result of the fire, we are forced to change our direction, and in many ways start over. On behalf of the Chewstick Foundation, I would like to thank Jasmine and everyone who attended the fundraiser for their contribution.”

Fierce Funk Fitness is a high intensity dance cardio workout with moves choreographed by fitness enthusiast and creator Ms Desilva. F3 combines your favourite club bangers with a fusion of reggae, soca and hip-hop.

Classes are held at CedarBridge Academy’s dance studio for the month of August on Wednesday’s and Saturday’s. For more information on F3 visit www.facebook.com/FierceFunkFitness or email fiercefunkfitness@gmail.com.