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July’s ARCH 50/50 draw winner was Harry Koskenoja of Sault Ste. Marie, who took home $45,645 with the winning ticket number #A7382933 in the Hospice’s first ever monthly draw.

Harry was shocked after finding out he had won. “My wife Leila and I purchased tickets to both ARCH and SAHF 50/50 draws – but we didn’t ever imagine winning!” Harry shared when picking up his winnings. Harry, like many, couldn’t recall a time he won any sort of draw or scratch ticket.

Harry plans on using part of his winnings for a big bucket list item: a trip to the United Kingdom. “We have had to cancel this trip several times. However, it has been a dream of ours to visit the parts of Great Britain, where my wife’s father was born and raised.

“I’m thrilled that Harry has won and will get the chance to ‘live his list’ with his winnings,” remarked Lee Rendell, Manager of Fund Development at ARCH. “Hospice is all about making memories and moments count, as well as living right until the very end. The fact that each month someone new has the chance to win and live out their list is a truly incredible thing to be a part of. We can’t wait to hear what’s on the next winner’s list, no matter how big or small!“

Harry has had a long career locally, working 20 years at each Algoma Steel and Sault Area Hospital. He was instrumental in the new Hospital build. Harry also volunteered his time and expertise for local health organizations: he was Chair of the Board of Directors at the Ontario Finnish Rest Home and volunteered to complete the 2018 building expansion at ARCH. “I think it’s important to give back to the community. It’s very rewarding helping others and local organizations, lending a hand, ideas, and time. Volunteering is one of the ways I can step up and give back.” Harry plans on continuing to give back, and will be donating some of his winnings to local charities that help others in the community. “Not everyone who wins a jackpot chooses to pay it forward – it’s inspiring and a testament to the kindness we see in our community,” recognized Lee.

Harry also shared that he plans to continue to participate in the ARCH 50/50. “I bought $100 in tickets for this first draw because I know that the Hospice needs it now more than ever. I plan to continue to contribute each month – not that I would expect to win again, but because I know it helps the Hospice to provide care in the community.”

Don’t miss your chance to win this month’s jackpot. The August 50/50 cash lottery is now live with a guaranteed minimum of $9,999 for the winning individual. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ARCH5050.ca from the comforts of your home. Tickets are 3 for $5, 10 for $10, and 60 for $20. The jackpot will be updated online in real-time for each month’s draw and will continue to grow as more people participate.

Everyone is a winner when supporting the ARCH 50/50, with half of the jackpot total each month going to the drawn ticket holder and the other half going to support compassionate care & comfort to local residents & their families. Over 180 residents and their families cared for each year at Hospice, and over 4,000 supportive care and grief sessions are provided to those in need in our community.” The July draw raised enough funds for Hospice to provide 19 days of food, care, and comfort to residents. “Even in years without the costs of COVID,” explained Lee, “we need to raise at least $850,000 in community support and rely on the help of nearly 150 volunteers. The ARCH 50/50 draw is a safe way for us to raise funds at this time, so we’re very grateful this first month’s jackpot was so high.”

Funds raised will make a difference in the lives of those who may need the hospice services, ensuring our community will be provided with quality care for years to come. “A big thank you to everyone who bought tickets and supported our first ever ARCH 50/50 draw!” shared Lee. “We can’t believe how supportive our community has been! Residents across Ontario over the age of 18 have the opportunity to purchase ARCH 50/50 tickets online at www.arch5050.ca. Tickets for this month’s draw are available for purchase until August 31 at 5 pm with a guaranteed minimum of $9,999, and the prize will begin growing after 50% of gross sales reach over $19,998. What would you do if you won?