I read today about the serious decline in donations to The Regional Food Distribution Association (RFDA) juxtaposed on the TBRHSC Foundation 50/50 Draw today for $6.43 million.
It means almost $13 million was gambled with the Foundation this month instead of being given to local charities that depend on Christmas giving. Indeed, the draw has taken in $113 million since 2021.
Gambling appears to have replaced old- fashioned giving. It concerns me.
I wonder at the cost of all this in terms of actual and ultimate community impact, economically and socially. Questions need to be asked. Small charities that serve the marginalized are struggling. Many have resorted to 50/50 draws to compete. $5000 in net proceeds is a big deal for them. Imagine what $6.4 million might do.
The roaring success of the Foundation 50/50 Lottery is undeniable. It has created quite the hysteria as the largest ever in Canada. Has it been good for Thunder Bay? What has been the overall social impact?
– Reg G. Jones, Thunder Bay
