THE Wiltshire Community Lottery has already helped dozens of good causes in the county, including a ‘men’s shed’ charity – that’s not just for men.
So far, more than 170 local clubs, charities and community groups have signed up, with the lottery – which launched in June – offering them a simple way to raise money through a weekly online draw.
Calne Men’s Shed, which welcomes women too, provides a safe, welcoming place for its members, helping to combat isolation while creating and maintaining items for the local community.
It has been involved in the community lottery from the very beginning and set itself a target of raising £1,300. However, based on ticket sales during the first few months, the charity has already exceeded that target and is currently on track to raise £1,612 in the first year.
Secretary of Calne Men’s Shed, Jeff Rawlings, said: “We decided to join the Wiltshire Community Lottery as a means of raising funds for our charity. The initial set up process was simple and straightforward and the lottery team provides you with promotional material and support.
“We already have a number of supporters, and it is hoped that we can increase this in the months ahead. I continue to promote the lottery to our members letting them know we have had winners in nearly every draw.
“The funds we receive each month from the lottery help our Shed by going towards the costs of things such as materials and maintenance.
“I would encourage any good causes in Wiltshire to sign up. It’s a great, fun way to raise funds.”
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Councillor Mel Jacob, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “I am delighted to hear that the Wiltshire Community Lottery is already making a positive difference for Calne Men’s Shed.
“We hope their success in selling tickets and raising money will inspire other groups to get involved. With just a few clicks, groups can sign up to take part and, as participation is free, it really is an opportunity not to be missed.
“Thank you to everyone across Wiltshire who has bought tickets so far.”
For every £1 lottery ticket bought, 50p goes directly to the player’s chosen good cause, with a further 10p going to a central fund, which Wiltshire Council will reinvest into local good causes. People can buy up to 20 tickets per week for a chance to win prizes of up to £25,000.
Current projections suggest the scheme could generate an additional £84,000 this year for the organisations that have registered to take part so far.
Wiltshire Council launched the community lottery to help local organisations secure vital funding and continue the valuable work they do in communities across the county. A wide range of organisations have already signed up, including grassroots sports teams, village hall committees, lunch clubs, advice groups, youth clubs and Men’s Sheds.
Local clubs, groups, charities and organisations interested in raising money through the lottery can find out more about the eligibility criteria and register by visiting the Wiltshire Community Lottery website.
Lottery tickets cost £1 and are now on sale via the via the website or by calling 03000 168 861. The next draw takes place on Saturday (September 5) with a jackpot of £25,000 with players able to choose which local cause they want their money to support.
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