The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation has launched its Igniting Healthcare Holiday 50/50, giving residents a chance to win while supporting upgraded mammography services at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
The draw opened Nov. 20 at 9 a.m. and runs until Jan. 8, 2026 at noon, offering $10,000 in early bird prizes and a grand prize that grows with every ticket sold. Proceeds will help replace CKHA’s aging mammography equipment as demand for screening increases under expanded eligibility rules in Ontario. Individuals aged 40 to 74 can now self-refer for routine breast screening, contributing to a rise in the number of patients choosing CKHA for mammograms.
Christine Mitchell, president and CEO of the foundation, said the community’s support is central to the draw’s impact. “Nothing beats the moment when we get to share the good news with our winners,” she said. “It’s joy, shock, and laughter, and the best part is that every one of those moments only happens because the community has come together to support local healthcare.”
Last summer’s 50/50 awarded $50,245 to Wallaceburg resident Sandra Denomey, who was stunned when foundation staff delivered the news.
Foundation officials say updated mammography technology will help improve early detection and reduce downtime, while offering clearer images and a more efficient experience for patients during an already stressful process. Mitchell said the need for high-quality imaging tools continues to grow. “As more patients turn to our hospital for screening, we need tools that match today’s expectations for quality, accuracy, and comfort,” she said. “Together, we can help strengthen breast imaging services right here at home.”
Early bird draws will take place throughout December, including four $1,000 prizes, a $2,000 prize and a $4,000 prize before the holidays. All tickets purchased before each deadline remain eligible for the grand prize.
Tickets are available at ignite5050.ca, at the foundation office on Ursuline Avenue from Monday to Thursday, and at pop-up events across Chatham-Kent. Players must be at least 18 and physically in Ontario at the time of purchase.
Since 2019, more than $1 million in prizes have been awarded through the Igniting Healthcare 50/50 while supporting diagnostic tools and local health services. Mitchell said this year’s draw could be life-changing for one winner while strengthening care for many others.
For full rules and details, visit ignite5050.ca.
