Fortune has smiled upon Christine Holt recently. She’d gotten a phone call one day in August, 2020, saying that she’d won the Algoma Residential Community Hospice’s monthly online 50/50 draw. At a total of $46,040, Christine’s win was the biggest draw amount so far.
She told the Kingsville Times, “I was pleasantly surprised when I got the call.” That’s quite understandable. That type of call would be a pleasant surprise to anyone. Not to mention, a cause for some serious excitement.
For 20 years Christine was owner of Country Crossings Gift Shop in Goulais River. She worked for the OPP and cleaned houses. On top of all that, she found the time to be a volunteer on various community committees as well as for Community Living Algoma.
After her win, though, Christine and her husband Kim made the decision to move to southwestern Ontario. Her ARCH winnings have been an encouragement to them to act on their desire to buy a house. She’d also like to spread the joy around for her children and some other family members.
Christine had originally bought the ticket as a way of contributing to a worthwhile cause. “I felt I would do my part in playing the 50/50 draw to help with the need of money in this COVID situation we are in,” she told the Times. “Many organizations relied on fundraiser events but then COVID hit and that put a stop to everything.”
The father of a friend of Christine’s had been a resident at ARCH. and she’d taken her friend every day to see him. The staff and volunteers had been wonderful with the residents. She saw this important time in hospice for this family being played out as it should be. People were treated with dignity and compassion.
“I also support the Sault Area Hospital 50/50 draw. They started their draws last December and my girlfriend won their second month draw too. Now the hospital draw is up to almost 200,000 last month. All the money goes to buy much-needed equipment,” Christine said.
Funds from the draw will help ARCH to support the families and loved ones of the residents. Proceeds help the organization to cover many expenses for residents such as care supplies, counselling and meals.
“My sister and I sent emails to the hospital here and to hospice to encourage them to look into this as well,” Christine said. “It would definitely help them with expenses they are experiencing now with COVID. I already bought my ticket for this month for both ARCH Hospice and the SAH.”
ARCH draws are held the last day of every month. There will be another draw on Sept. 30, 2020. The winner is guaranteed a minimum of $9,999. No jackpot has been less than $45,000 thus far.
Tickets can be purchased at www.ARCH5050.ca
