One local organization received a gift last month that will keep on giving, thanks to efforts of area gardeners.

The Wounded Warrior Care Project received more than $2,500 from a Wounded Warrior/Habitat for Humanity raffle sponsored by the Azalea District of Garden Clubs.

The Azalea District includes clubs from Evans, Harlem, Augusta, Thomson and surrounding areas. The Augusta Council of Garden Clubs is under the Azalea District and all of the clubs are members of the Garden Club of Georgia.

During a recent Buddy Luncheon sponsored by Mann Memorial United Methodist Church, members of the Azalea District were on hand to draw for raffle prizes. Among the prizes awarded were items donated by Windsor Jewelers, Mercedes Benz and actor Gary Sinise. The district raised $2,800, which included ticket sales and donations.

“We will distribute the funds raised to wounded warriors throughout the Azalea District,” said Betty Davis, Wounded Warrior/Habitat for Humanity raffle chairman for the Azalea District. “Of course, being garden clubbers, we want to specify the funds go toward the landscaping of the habitat homes for wounded warriors.”

For several days leading up to the luncheon, members of the Iris Garden Club prepared food for the group of veterans. During the luncheon, the members served the group and held the raffle.

“Personally, I learned more about the Wounded Warrior projects and the Augusta Warrior Project and how so many of the garden club ladies want to lend a helping hand to these warriors who have given so much to our country,” Davis said.

http://newstimes.augusta.com/news/2013-01-06/gardeners-donate-to-wounded-warriors