Atlantic Lottery marks 50th anniversary with $200,000 in donations to local charities

Atlantic Lottery is marking its 50th anniversary with $200,000 in donations to charitable organizations across Atlantic Canada.

The Crown corporation announced the donations Thursday at an anniversary event in Moncton, as part of its Community Game Changers program.

The program was launched earlier this year and invited nominations for individuals making a meaningful and positive impact in their communities.

One Community Game Changer was selected in each Atlantic province, with each recipient directing $25,000 to a charity of their choice.

Newfoundland and Labrador's Community Game Changer, Linda Ryan, directed $25,000 to the Canadian Cancer Society to support Daffodil Place, the society's provincial lodge that provides a home away from home for people affected by cancer.

Atlantic Lottery President and CEO Dallas McCready said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognize people working to make a difference in their communities.

“Atlantic Lottery was founded 50 years ago to benefit the people and places of Atlantic Canada,” McCready said. “A lot has changed since 1976, but our commitment to this region remains as strong as ever.”

McCready said the company wanted to celebrate its milestone by supporting people and organizations that share its commitment to Atlantic communities.

“We could think of no better way to commemorate this milestone anniversary than by celebrating with those that share our commitment to making a meaningful impact where it matters most,” he said.

Atlantic Lottery is also giving back through its anniversary-themed Celebrate & Share Scratch’N Win game.

The $2 game features 10 top prizes of $50,000, along with an additional $10,000 for each winner's charity of choice.

The company said the game will result in another $100,000 investment in local charities.