Sales Ends Mon Sep 01 2025
Charities Lottery History
The Knights of Columbus Lottery, originating from the Knights of Columbus “Tombola” in Ottawa in 1920, has evolved significantly over its century-long journey. In 2020, commemorating its hundred-year milestone, the provincial lottery underwent a notable transformation. Starting January 2021, the Ontario Knights of Columbus Charity Raffle shifted its focus to a "50-50 Raffle" format and transitioned all sales to digital platforms, aligning with contemporary needs for social distancing. Despite these adaptations, the fundamental purpose of the lottery remains steadfast: raising funds to support traditional charities such as the Arthritis Society, Special Olympics Ontario, and the Children’s Wish Foundation, among others.
Administered by the Ontario State Office under the authority of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, the Charities Lottery operates under provincial licensing by the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Commission. Over the years, the Knights of Columbus Ontario Charities Foundation has made significant contributions, having donated over 11 million dollars to local non-profit organizations throughout Ontario since the inception of the lottery program. Through these efforts, the Knights of Columbus continues to demonstrate its enduring commitment to charitable causes and community welfare.
2024 Charities 50/50 Online Raffle Authorized Donation Recipients
Non-Profit/ Pro-Life or Charitable:
Arthritis Society - Birthright - Children Wishes - Children’s Aid - Churches - Crime Stoppers -Food Banks - Foster Parents - Habitat for Humanity - Homes for the Aged - Hospices
Hospital Foundations - Meals on Wheels -Relief Shelters - Rosalie Hall - Salvation Army - Special Olympics Ontario - St Vincent de Paul -
Catholic Christian Outreach - Catholic Missions Canada - The Martyr’s Shrine
Bursaries / Scholarships:
High School - University
Community / Church:
Church Renovation - Family Centres - Inner City Homes - Needy Families - Seniors Groups
Education / Research:
Birthright Pregnancy Service - Marguerite Bourgeoys Family Planning -Serena Ontario -Natural Family Planning (NFP) - Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies - Right to Life Association
Youth Programs:
Basketball - Handicapped Kids - Science Fairs
Columbian Squires - V.I.P. Programs - Youth Camps - Youth Groups
Vocations:
Help Centre - Religious Orders - Seminarians -
Ontario Conference of Catholic Bishops