Local excitement is heating up this summer as the Canal Days 50/50 jackpot climbs past
$12,000, and the first Early Bird prize winner has officially been crowned!
Congratulations to K. Kortekass of Saint Catharines, with ticket number #130932, who took
home a brand-new Hisense 43” 4K Smart TV after Friday’s Facebook Live draw hosted by Port
Cares. The draw is the first of three in this year’s fundraising lottery, with the next Early Bird
prize, a $500 grocery and gas gift card, up for grabs on August 1.
As South Niagara continues to face the effects of a worsening affordability crisis, the stakes
behind this local 50/50 draw have never been higher. Rising rent, soaring food prices, and job
uncertainty are forcing more and more families to rely on food banks just to get by.
“In the middle of this crisis, every Canal Days 50/50 ticket purchased does more than offer a
chance to win, it’s a lifeline for families in our community,” said Christine Clark Lafleur, CEO of
Port Cares. “We’re talking about children, seniors, and working parents, who simply can’t keep
up with the cost of living. The need is urgent.”
Nearly one in four Canadians, a staggering 10 million, experienced food insecurity in 2024,
marking a 15% increase from the previous year. Of those, 2.6 million faced severe food
insecurity reducing meals or going without food entirely. In Canada’s food banks, children
accounted for nearly 700,000 visits in a single month, reflecting the heavy impact on families
and kids.
Here in South Niagara, Port Cares’ Reach Out Centre food bank is stretched thin as demand
climbs. Proceeds from the 50/50 draw will go directly toward helping Port Cares keep its shelves
stocked with essentials like pasta, peanut butter, canned meats, and baby formula.
Upcoming Draws:
2nd Early Bird Prize Draw: August 1 - $500 Gas & Grocery Gift Card
Grand Prize Draw: August 5 - Jackpot now over $13,000 and growing!
Tickets are available at portcares5050.ca or in person at 92 Charlotte Street, Port Colborne.
“This is how we rally as a community,” says Lafleur. “Buy a ticket, feed a family, and you might
just walk away with a big win of your own.”
For updates, future prize announcements, and to watch upcoming live draws, follow Port Cares
on socials.