Debbie Wilkie got lucky. Twice.

Wilkie was the winner of a $250 gift certificate for Payless Food Store in Freeland, thanks to the generosity of the store and a raffle sponsored by HOPE Therapeutic Riding Center.

Unfortunately, Wilkie’s prize was stolen out of her purse two days later. All ended well, however, after Payless voided the original certificate and issued a new one to Wilkie.

Ten other folks each won $25 certificates in the raffle.

Riding center organizers sent thanks to Payless, to everyone who bought raffle tickets and to those who sold them.

Established in 1986, HOPE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults who face special challenges — physical, cognitive or emotional — to discover their abilities, independent skills and explore their potential through equine-assisted activities and therapy.

As a nonprofit, HOPE is looking for ways to fund its programs. Donations are always welcome.

For more information, call the center at 221-7656 or visit www.hope-whidbey.org.