We recently had an opportunity to connect with Carly, the 2025 Federated Health Charities Lottery $5,000 winner. Here’s our conversation…
First off, congratulations on your big win! Can you tell us what it was like to find out you’d won the $5,000 prize?
Carly: Thank you! It was honestly such an incredible surprise—and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. The draw happened on the same day as my 20th wedding anniversary! We had planned to postpone our celebration until later in the summer because our child’s high school graduation was the very next day. But thanks to the win, we were able to sneak in a lovely dinner to mark the occasion.
That sounds like a very special moment. How did you decide to use the prize money?
Carly: We wanted to share the joy, so we donated to one of our favourite local organizations—The Stop Community Food Centre. The rest is going toward our child’s first-year university expenses, which is a huge help as we prepare for that big step.
What inspired you to buy tickets for the Federated Health Charities lottery?
Carly: I’ve been a long-time OPS-er, and I’ve always been proud to support the Federated Health Charities Campaign. It was started by public servants decades ago, and it’s made a real difference in the lives of my family, friends, and so many others. Supporting it just feels like the right thing to do.
You also shared a photo with us—can you tell us a bit about it?
Carly: Sure! The photo is from June 22, 2025, when I participated in a sprint triathlon in Welland. I chose it because it reflects the mission of Federated Health—to support healthier communities through education, awareness, and action. It felt like a fitting way to celebrate the campaign and the win.
Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
Carly: Just a huge thank you to all my OPS colleagues who volunteer, donate, and support this incredible cause. Federated Health Charities truly makes a difference, and I’m so grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply.
