The Group Health Centre (GHC) Trust Fund has launched the Bunkie Lottery, a fundraiser aimed at supporting the purchase of a new mammography unit.
With $70,000 in prizes, including a grand prize Bunkie Package valued at $60,000, the fundraiser offers the community a chance to win big while contributing to a vital cause, the GHC said in a news release.
Proceeds from the lottery will directly support GHC’s Diagnostic Imaging Department, which conducts approximately 6,000 mammograms annually as part of the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP).
The OBSP is available to everyone "including women, men, non-binary, trans, and two-spirit individuals" aged 50 to 74 in the Algoma District, the health centre said.
With an upcoming expansion in eligibility to those 40 to 74 starting this fall, the need for enhanced equipment is more pressing than ever, the GHC said.
Early detection through screenings can significantly improve the chances of successful breast cancer treatment and survival, according to the GHC.
The Bunkie Lottery grand prize includes a $20,000 Rockwood 160 bunkie from Bunkie Life, a family-operated business in Ontario, plus an additional $40,000 in cash to assist with construction and furnishing costs.
Alternatively, winners may opt for a $50,000 cash prize.
“Partnering with Bunkie Life, known for their contributions to Ronald McDonald House Canada and Make-A-Wish Canada, aligns perfectly with our mission of enhancing healthcare services,” said trust fund manager Tricia Lesnick.
GHC said Bunkie Life offers versatile small cabin kits that are easy to assemble and provide additional living or office space. The kits include all necessary hardware and require no special tools for assembly.
“Bunkies offer so many options for people to create additional space at their home or camp," Lesnick said. "You can add a guesthouse for family members, create a playhouse for your kids in the backyard, use it as an office, create a rental property, and so much more. The possibilities are endless, and the proceeds are going towards a very critical piece of equipment which makes this so meaningful."
The Bunkie Lottery also features 10 early bird prizes of $1,000 cash, drawn weekly from July 3 to Aug. 21.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at healthcentrelottery.ca or in person at select locations throughout the summer. The grand prize draw is scheduled for Aug. 28.
GHC president and CEO Lil Silvano emphasized the fundraiser's broader community benefits. “By participating in the Bunkie Lottery, you’re not only getting a chance to win an incredible prize, but you’re also making a significant impact on GHC’s ability to provide critical health service,” Silvano said.
You can learn more about OBSP eligibility and how to schedule an appointment here.
For details about the Bunkie Lottery, ticket purchases, and the full list of rules, visit healthcentrelottery.ca.
Tickets will also be available at the GHC reception desk at 240 McNabb St. during regular business hours, payable by debit or credit only beginning in July.
The licence number for this lottery is RAF1384450.