Car lottery continues to support HOPE
Tickets normally sell out, says organization’s chairman
For a quarter-century, one of Yarmouth’s best-known organizations has been conducting a vehicle lottery as a fundraiser and the tradition continues for HOPE, which has begun selling tickets for the lottery’s 26th edition.
The draw is scheduled for March 21, when the top prize will be a 2020 Hyundai Elantra or $15,000 cash.
“It’s HOPE’s major fundraiser,” said Doug Thistle, chairman of HOPE’s board of directors. “We normally sell out. They used to print 1,500 tickets. Now we have 2,000 printed.”
Proceeds from the lottery will help HOPE (Handicapped Organization Promoting Equality) with operating expenses for its building, or HOPE Centre, in Yarmouth’s south end.
HOPE depends on donations and fundraisers, Thistle says, and they’re grateful to those who contribute.
“We appreciate the support of the public,” he said. “It’s good support to keep the operation going here.”
Established nearly four decades ago, HOPE has, over the years, provided a variety of programs and services.
The organization moved into its new facility on Bond Street in 2017. Prior to that, it was based in temporary quarters on Main Street after their longtime home — also on Main Street, not far from the new facility — was damaged by flooding.
The new building has been used for various community functions, including hosting meals that are part of the Town of Yarmouth’s 100 Meals program, an initiative that will be offered again this coming winter.
Activities at the HOPE Centre these days include a weekly social program for seniors on Wednesday afternoons. The organization also plans to reintroduce a coffee-and-muffins program.
Tickets for HOPE’s vehicle lottery are $30 each or two for $50.