An Essex woman has become $100,000 richer, thanks to her Lotto Max Encore winning ticket. Theresa (Terri) Renaud matched the last six of seven numbers in exact order during the draw on December 17, 2024, marking her first major win. Renaud's husband took her ticket to the store for validation, where the lottery terminal froze, indicating the positive news. "When he told me what happened, I couldn’t believe it," Renaud shared during her visit to the Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) officials in Toronto. She was thrilled to share the good news with her daughters and sister, who were equally delighted.
"I plan to pay some bills with my windfall," Renaud added, reflecting her practical approach to the unexpected fortune. The winning ticket was purchased at Shoppers Drug Mart on Talbot Street South in Essex. This win is particularly significant for Renaud, who had not experienced such luck previously.
Similarly, another significant lottery win occurred when Donnabelle McIntosh of Burlington struck upon the Lightning Lotto jackpot on January 3, winning $174,605.10. The 56-year-old has been playing the lottery for years, enjoying the games offered by OLG, including Lotto Max and Lotto 6/49, often utilizing the Quick Pick feature for her selections. McIntosh described her surprise upon winning: "When I bought my Lightning Lotto ticket, the lottery terminal froze and music began to play. I was stunned and overcome with happiness. I feel very fortunate to have won this incredible prize."
McIntosh has plans for her newfound wealth, expressing joy at the prospect of traveling, demonstrating how lottery winnings can transform lives and create opportunities. Her winning ticket was purchased at Pioneer/Snack Express on Appleby Line in Burlington, proving again the luck of local businesses.
The excitement extends beyond these two notable wins, as Ontarians are encouraged to check their tickets after news broke about another substantial Lotto Max ticket sold, worth $25 million, reportedly bought somewhere in the Willowdale area of Toronto. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) stated this ticket was sold during the recent Friday night draw, and the jackpot winner has yet to claim their prize. Torontonians are eager to discover if one of their neighbors is waking up significantly richer.
This potential win adds to the prevailing atmosphere of excitement surrounding Ontario’s lottery draws. With several significant payouts occurring recently, it is clear the lottery continues to be a source of dreams and aspirations for many. The allure of newfound wealth not only influences the winners’ lives but also invigorates the local economy as they share their fortunes with family, friends, and charitable causes.
Whether it is paying off bills, planning trips, or simply enjoying the thrill of life’s unexpected blessings, the winners from Essex and Burlington exemplify how lottery winnings can lead to joy, excitement, and, most critically, fresh opportunities. Victories like these serve as inspiration for other players, propelling them to remain hopeful with each ticket purchased.
Ontario's recent lottery news stands as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the joys of hitting the jackpot, even if just for one lucky individual. The Lotto Max and Lightning Lotto continue to attract players from all walks of life, each dreaming of their moment of fortune. So, who knows? The next big winner could be just around the corner.