A lottery scheme has been officially launched recently which not gives players the chance to win huge cash prizes, but also raises money for vital local causes.
The Wealden Community Lottery was announced at an event at the Hailsham Civic Community Hall which saw people attending from a range of local organisations within the Wealden community.
The launch included a presentation by Gatherwell, the leading lottery management company, to explain how the lottery would benefit local organisations.
Organisations ranging from sports clubs to charities have already taken up the offer to give their fundraising a boost.
Good causes still are being encouraged to sign up and there’s no limit on the number of causes that can join. Each good cause will be given its own page on the website to direct their supporters to. Causes will receive 50p from every £1 ticket they sell. The remainder will be put towards a central fund, prizes, operating costs and VAT.
Vicky Cheeseman at Rotherfield St Martin, a community-led charity which aims to prevent isolation and loneliness among older people, said, “We had a great time at the launch and are excited to see how the Community Lottery can support out local organisation.
“We signed up to fundraise with the lottery because it will allow us to raise money online, all year round without needing to print tickets or source prizes.
“We’re excited to give our supporters a fun way to boost our fundraising, and maybe even win a cash prize.”
Councillor Pam Doodes, Wealden’s lead member for Community, said, “The launch event was a wonderful success and it was great to see so many good causes enthusiastic in their approach.
“I am sure that they and other community groups which sign up to the Wealden Community Lottery will start to see the benefits and an increase in their funds.”
With so many good causes signed up, it will soon be time for the lottery to open to ticket sales. Ticket sales for the lottery will launch at www.wealdencommunitylottery.co.uk on Tuesday 21 February. Players will have the chance to win cash prizes of up to £25,000, whilst supporting the good cause of their choice.
The first draw will take place on Saturday 25 March.
Any not-for-profit organisation that is interested can sign up at http://www.wealdencommunitylottery.co.uk
