COVID-19 cancels hospitals' annual Five Car Draw

Saultites won't have a chance to win a car or cash this year.

The Sault Area Hosptial Foundation has decided to cancel its 31st annual Five Car Draw due to COVID-19.

This year's fundraiser - the largest one yet - was originally scheduled for June 27, and was later rescheduled for the fall.

However, in a press release issued today, SAH stated it feel like the safety of the community takes priority.

The volunteer involvement needed to conduct a draw of this size leaves too many people at risk, even with the proper restrictions, says the release.

The Foundation had been actively monitoring the situation in the community and trying to find a way to make this draw possible. The funds it provides for Sault Area Hospital are essential to meet the capital equipment needs this year. Sault Area Hospital’s equipment needs are nearing $5 million per year, and the foundation needs to fundraise to meet these costs. 

Currenty, the foundation is raising costs through the 50/50 draws while coming up with a plan to modernize the Five Car Draw.

Over the past 30 years, the Five Car Draw has raised over $4.2 million to purchase medical equipment for Sault Area Hospital. 

“It’s very difficult to make this cancellation. Car Draw is a special time of year for our Foundation and this community. We had an incredible 30th anniversary last year and were looking forward to another amazing year.” says Teresa Martone, Sault Area Hospital Foundation Executive Director.

SAHF is encouraging all past Car Draw purchasers to join in and consider purchasing 50/50 tickets during this year’s hiatus. Tickets are available online here. The past two draws have awarded prizes each of over $100,000 and this month’s draw is growing at a similar pace.

This month’s draw will take place on July 31, 2020.