Two residents from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are kicking off the fall season with life-changing windfalls, totaling $600,000 from separate wins with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).
Bassam Mokdad from Scarborough, a rideshare driver and father of four, struck gold with a $500,000 top prize while playing Instant Gold Crown. A regular lottery player for around ten years, Mokdad often grabs tickets during his gas station stops at work.
“I was completely shocked when I saw the prize amount,” he exclaimed. “I wanted to shout with joy, but I held back since there were people around. Inside, though, I was bursting with happiness.”
Mokdad’s first call was to his wife, who was initially skeptical. However, his children were overjoyed by the news. He plans to invest in property and treat his family to a much-deserved vacation.
“I’m constantly on the road for work, so I can’t wait to spend some quality time with my family,” Mokdad shared.
In Toronto, Angela Lawrence also had a reason to rejoice after matching the last six of seven Encore numbers in exact order during the July 22 Lotto Max draw, securing a $100,000 win.
A healthcare worker, Lawrence has been playing the lottery for over two decades, usually twice a week. She only started including Encore a few years back.
“I always dreamt of a big win, and now it’s finally my turn,” Lawrence expressed happily.
She carried the winning ticket for about a week before checking it at a mall kiosk.
“They informed me that they couldn’t pay me out directly because I had won big. I forgot everything I planned to do that day — getting gas, groceries… everything!”
Lawrence intends to clear bills, invest for the future, and set aside funds for emergencies. She also contemplates home improvements and a new stove purchase.
“I’m truly grateful for the financial security this win brings me for my retirement,” Lawrence added.
The winning tickets were purchased at the Petro-Canada on Eglinton Avenue West in Mississauga and Best Deals Ltd. on Markham Road in Scarborough.
Keyphrase: Lottery winners Ontario.