CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WWBT/Gray News)— A Virginia woman who won big playing the lottery is giving her winnings to charity.
Carrie Edwards won $150,000 by matching four of the first five numbers plus the Powerball number on her lottery ticket in the Sept. 8 drawing.
Normally, that wins $50,000, but Edwards spent an extra $1 on Power Play, so her prize money tripled to $150,000.
On Tuesday, Edwards received her prize and immediately gave her winnings away as three $50,000 gifts.
The first $50,000 is going to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. The organization supports urgent research, education and family resources for those affected by early-onset dementia, a donation made in memory of Edward’s late husband, Steve, who died from the disorder.
“This cause is deeply personal,” she said. “During World FTD Awareness Month, I wanted this gift to shine a light on the families who are fighting this disease and on the researchers working toward a cure. God is blessing me so I can bless others through him.”
The second donation went to Shalom Farms, a nonprofit farm and food justice organization working for “an equitable food system in Richmond.”
The third $50,000 donation benefits the Navy-Marine Relief Society, which provides financial, educational and emergency assistance for active-duty service members, veterans and their families.
“These three organizations represent healing, service, and community,” Edwards said. “Shalom Farms heals through food and soil, AFTD brings hope through research, and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society carries forward the tradition of supporting military families in times of need.”
By donating her entire prize, Edwards hopes others will be inspired to see unexpected blessings as opportunities to give back.
“I feel blessed that this unexpected lottery win can serve a greater purpose,” she said.