From left, Stephen Rosales, Susan Zuspan, Sharon Peterson, Roger Fell, Donna Green, Stephen Ragsdale and Santa Claus. Sequim Gazette photo by Matthew Nash

The Sequim Lavender Grower’s Association donated $1,000 to the Sequim Food Bank and $500 to Toys for Tots on Dec. 11.

At their annual lavender grower’s bazaar on Nov. 28, organizers Susan Zuspan, Sharon Peterson and Donna Green coordinated a raffle of items from local lavender farms that raised $1,000. The association decided to donate an additional $500 to Toys for Tots.

“We want to encourage other nonprofits to match our donation and/or donate to these organizations,” said Stephen Ragsdale, SLGA president.

Santa Claus from Toys for Tots said donations are most needed for pre-teens and teens because most toys received are for young children.

Toys for Tots supports children up to 18 years old and items teens prefer are DVDs, MP3 players, video games, etc.

Donations can be dropped off at Swain’s Outdoor, the UPS Store and Sunshine Herb and Lavender Farm where every toy donor will receive a free mocha.

Food bank board president Stephen Rosales said money received will go toward general food costs.