They say if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
But there’s one annual lottery that flies in the face of this view – and it’s on again. The Channel 9 Telethon Distinctive Home and Land Lottery offers South Australians the chance to win a $450,000 dream home for just $10, while helping to raise much-needed funds for some of State’s most worthy and respected charities.
The popular fundraiser, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities each year over the past few years and last year exceeded $920,000, hopes to top the magic $1-million mark in 2013.
That’s something Channel 9 Telethon Project Coordinator Josie Meyer believes is achievable given the prize on offer.
“Our generous major sponsors, Distinctive Homes, Lanser Communities, Taste Furniture and Supreme Kitchens have combined to come up with a fantastic first prize that’s sure to resonate with the public – a furnished and fashionable family home at Aspire, a premier land development at Evanston South just this side of Gawler,” she said.
The warm and welcoming residence is the 20th home fully donated by Distinctive Homes to the Channel 9 Telethon Distinctive Home and Land Lottery, while the land at Aspire is the third allotment to be donated by Lanser Communities and lies in close proximity to major shopping precincts and a range of leading schools.
“At just $10 a ticket or $40 for a book of five, it’s a great way to put yourself in line for a life-changing prize while helping our worthy charities to support those who need it most through a range of essential services that actually change lives,” she added.
“Each year, we’re amazed by the generosity of our fellow South Australians and we’re confident they will again dig deep and push the funds raised beyond the $1-million mark for the first time in our history.”
Without such generosity, beneficiary charities such as Cara would struggle to fulfil its vital mission of supporting children and adults with disabilities to lead full and rewarding lives.
The not-for-profit organisation has a strong presence in the northern Adelaide and Gawler areas and, according to Chief Executive Officer Denice Wharldall, the funds received via Channel 9 Telethon has allowed the organisation to host a growing number of camps for children with a disability and improve facilities.
“Families need a break from their caring role and our camps are a great way for them to enjoy some free time while their children have great fun away with their friends. At our annual camp, the children also get the opportunity to enjoy the companionship of camp buddies from nearby Trinity College, wonderful support they’ve been providing for the past 13 years,” Ms Wharldall said.
“Channel 9 Telethon funds have also allowed us to develop an outdoor play area for our respite service for children at Ingle Farm and construct a pergola for an accommodation service at Playford Waters.
“Government funding only goes so far, so we’re most grateful to those who support the lottery and, in turn, support us.”
Channel 9 Telethon began the Home and Land Lottery in 1961 and this year the fundraiser is supporting 20 South Australian charities. Tickets are on sale at participating charities, online at www.telethon.com.au, through Guild Chemists, Wallis Cinemas and at the lottery home from July 28. For more information phone (08) 8267 0209.