They're not out of the woods yet, but WinFall Lottery organizers remain hopeful a surge in ticket sales will put the 2011 draw back on track.
Peace Arch Hospital and Community Health Foundation executive director Jackie Smith said Monday a B.C.-wide appeal for purchasers brought in 1,900 new buyers over the weekend. The influx boosted ticket sales to about 40 per cent – an increase of five per cent.
"It doesn't sound like a big number, but it is a lot of volume," Smith said.
Smith appealed to the community for help last week, after barely one-third of tickets for the historically popular lottery had sold. Without help, the lottery won't be able to fund the medical equipment proceeds are intended for, she said at the time.
With Wednesday's 11 p.m. deadline to buy fast-approaching, Smith remains optimistic another 18,000 buyers will come forward for ticket packages. That number won't sell out the lottery, "but we will be in good shape," she said.
Regardless of whether the ticket-sale goal is met, all prizes will be awarded and all vendor commitments will be met.
Tickets may be purchased online at www.WinFallLottery.ca, by calling 604-436-5690 or at venues including Peace Arch Hospital, Future Shop in Grandview Corners or the South Surrey Shoppers Drug Mart.