The 31st Sault Area Hospital Foundation 5 Car Draw will not happen in 2020.

Originally scheduled for June 27th, and later rescheduled for the fall, the popular SAHF fundraiser is being cancelled due to the uncertainty in our community surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s draw was planned to be bigger than ever before, however SAHF wants to prioritize safety in our community. The volunteer involvement needed to conduct a draw of this size leaves too many people at risk, even with the proper restrictions.

Over the past 30 years, the 5 Car Draw has raised over $4.2 million to purchase medical equipment for Sault Area Hospital. Every dollar has helped keep patients local for outstanding care. “Safety needs to be front and center. The draw has been a huge part of our summer here in Sault Ste. Marie and it raises important funds for our local hospital. But that all means nothing if we aren’t taking care of each other and keeping safe.” says Joe Orazietti, Creator and former chair of the 5 Car Draw, who was supportive of this decision.

The 5 Car Draw has been the Foundation’s largest single fundraiser for the past three decades supported by a network of volunteer ticket sellers stationed throughout the community. “Our volunteers are a significant reason we achieved the success we have experienced throughout the years, while this year, keeping them out of harm’s way is our priority” says Teresa Martone, Executive Director, Sault Area Hospital Foundation.

The Foundation had been actively assessing the situation in the community and trying to find a way to make this draw possible. The funds it provides for Sault Area Hospital are essential to meet the capital equipment needs this year. “It’s very difficult to make this cancellation. Car Draw is a special time of year for our Foundation and this community. We had an incredible 30th anniversary last year and were looking forward to another amazing year.” says Teresa Martone. “We are now planning and modernizing 5 Car Draw for the future. We have a very successful online 50/50 draw that allows us to fundraise safely. Last month we gave away over $177,000 to a pair of lovely ladies right here in Sault Ste. Marie. The funds we are raising through these 50/50 draws are going to help us support the needs of our hospital during this difficult time.”

Sault Area Hospital’s equipment needs are nearing $5 million per year. SAH Foundation is required to fundraise to meet these needs. Equipment needs are funded through donations, local event support and lotteries like the 5 Car Draw and SAHF 50/50. SAHF 50/50 started in November and has since raised $380,000 for our local hospital. “Our monthly 50/50 is meeting a portion of the fundraising goals we have. Our plan before Covid-19 included 50/50 and Car Draw among many other events and fundraisers, the pandemic has really changed that. We are making the necessary adjustments and asking our local community to give from their hearts to ensure we prioritize local care at our hospital. It’s more important than ever.” says Martone.

SAHF is encouraging all past Car Draw purchasers to join in and consider purchasing 50/50 tickets during this year’s hiatus.

Tickets are available online at www.soo5050.ca. The past two draws have awarded prizes each of over $100,000 and this month’s draw is growing at a similar pace. SAHF 50/50 is supported by SooToday.com and Village Media, who are dedicated to making a difference in our community. This month’s draw will take place on July 31, 2020.

SAHF 50/50 tickets can be purchased by anyone 18+ years old within the province of Ontario at www.soo5050.ca. Tickets are delivered instantly and safely via email.

Thank you to all purchasers for making outstanding care possible, right here in Sault Ste. Marie.

SAHF 50/50 Licence #11959