Thunder Bay 50/50 Gears Up for Another Incredible August Draw
Published Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Samantha and Matthew Woods from Geraldton, Ontario won big in the August 2024 Thunder Bay 50/50, taking home a $2,210,338 Grand Prize.
It was nearly one year ago that Samantha Woods of Geraldton, Ontario received the phone call of a lifetime, earning a spot in the Thunder Bay 50/50's exclusive millionaires club with an astounding $2,210,338 grand prize in the August 2024 draw.
As the Thunder Bay 50/50 team prepares for another exciting August campaign, they're taking a moment to reflect on the legacy of their winners and the remarkable momentum that shows no sign of slowing down.
“Samantha's win was a defining moment in the lottery's history,” says Glenn Craig, Hospital Foundation CEO. “It came during our ‘Dog Days of Summer' campaign, and was also one of our largest grand prizes on record outside of Christmas. Seeing the impact her win had on her life, and on the hospital, is exactly why we do this.”
Samantha, a personal support worker at Geraldton District Hospital and proud dog owner, was drawn to the pet-focused theme. “I bought tickets because of the 'Dog Days of Summer,' and with having four dogs myself, I thought it might bring us some luck. I was hoping maybe I'd win one of the early bird prizes, but never expected the jackpot,” says Samantha.
A year later, her life and the lives of patients across Northwestern Ontario have been positively changed thanks to the support of everyday ticket buyers like her.
“It's incredible to look back and see what's been accomplished,” says Torin Gunnell, Manager of Lotteries at the Foundation. “Every month, we've had the chance to award life-changing prizes and at the same time, help fund vital healthcare equipment for our region. It's more than luck—it's a movement.”
The Thunder Bay 50/50 has become Canada's largest hospital 50/50, awarding more than $71 million in prizes since launching in January 2021, while raising millions for equipment like cardiac imaging tools, surgical upgrades, and planned improvements to the Emergency Department. From Thunder Bay to small northern towns, and communities across the province, the ripple effect of each draw is felt far and wide.
The August 2025 draw is already off to a strong start and is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. With over $159,000 in early bird prizes, draws happening every weekday, and a special $100 Summer Ticket Package with bonus numbers, there are more chances to win than ever before. This month, the Foundation has also teamed up with the Thunder Bay & District Humane Society to feature adoptable animals across its platforms, helping them get seen by more potential adopters throughout the month of August.
Don't miss out—get your tickets today at thunderbay5050.ca and be part of something truly special this summer.