Tree of Hope 50/50 raises record-breaking amount

It’s a record-breaking year for the 570 NewsRadio Tree of Hope 50/50.

The five-week long campaign supported the Family and Children’s Services (FACS) Foundation of Waterloo Region.

Major cash and prizes were handed out including a Kitchener Rangers VIP experience, concert tickets, and $2,500 cash courtesy of Heffner Lexus Toyota.

Thanks to community contributions, the jackpot reached more than $239,000.

Half goes to the winner of Thursday’s Grand Prize Draw, Donald Harvey of Waterloo. He was phoned by Brady & Tara with CHYM 96.7 and said, “I’m feeling pretty darn good!”

Harvey is receiving a whopping $119,642, which is the highest take home prize in the 50/50’s history.

The same amount is going to the Family and Children’s Services Foundation.

Executive Director, Jill Stoddart, says they’re seeing an unprecedented need for services and support.

“We’re getting calls every day from families who have never reached out for help,” Stoddart said. “The stories we’re hearing every day are unlike any other year, so thank goodness the community has stood behind us and made this Tree of Hope 50/50 unlike any other year.”

You can learn more about FACS by clicking here.