Representatives from local organisations gathered on 12 October to celebrate two years of the lottery, which was launched on 3 August 2024 to help community groups, charities, and voluntary organisations raise vital funds.
Since its launch, the lottery has generated more than £34,000 for the Epping Forest community, with 76 local good causes signing up to benefit. Players have also shared in over £32,000 in cash prizes, including one jackpot winner of £25,000, one winner of £2,000, nine winners of £250, and 143 winners of £25.
The lottery continues to offer an accessible way for residents to support causes they care about, with at least 50% of every ticket sale directly benefiting local good causes.
Thanks to the lottery's continued growth, eight organisations that consistently sold more than 20 tickets per week received £200 bonus awards. These recipients included With Love Chicken Soup Run, Coopersale and Theydon Garnon C.E. Primary School, Epping Forest Heritage Trust, Ongar Senior Wellbeing Hub, Chigwell Riding Trust, The League of Friends of St Margaret’s Hospital and Community, Epping Forest District Swimming Club, and Bedford House Community Association.
Additionally, grants of up to £400 were awarded this year to eight organisations: 41st Epping Forest Scout Group, Limes Farm and Grange Hill Community Group, Bedford House Community Association, Haven House Foundation, Community Playhub CIC, Epping Forest Gymnastics Club, Jenna Wilkins Foundation, and Matching Green Cricket Club. These funds support a variety of projects, including youth activities, services tackling isolation, family support, digital inclusion, and opportunities for local athletes.
Councillor Kaz Rizvi, Portfolio Holder for Community Health and Wellbeing, commented: 'As we celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the Epping Forest Community Lottery, it’s important to recognise the incredible local organisations that are often the unsung heroes of our communities. Their dedication and hard work make a real difference to residents across the district, and we’re proud that the lottery has now raised more than £34,000 to support them. Thank you to everyone who plays the lottery, and we look forward to seeing it grow even further over the coming year so that even more good causes can benefit.'
