Recent lottery wins from Publix have brought smiles to two residents of Florida, showcasing the luck to be found at this popular supermarket chain. Megan Chora, 40, from Largo, became a multi-millionaire when she claimed a second-tier prize worth $4 million by playing the Mega Millions.
Chora purchased her winning ticket on June 11 at the Publix located at 10500 Ulmerton Road. This ticket matched all five white ball numbers, though it missed the Mega Ball. Despite this, Chora's fortunate ticket has dramatically changed her life. "Before this, I’ve never won anything... I can’t believe it now!" said Chora, expressing her disbelief at her newfound wealth.
The Florida Lottery confirmed the retailer where the ticket was sold received a $5,000 bonus commission for this impressive sale, highlighting how these wins not only affect individuals but also benefit local businesses.
But Chora isn’t the only one celebrating. Over the summer, Appolon Jean, 65, from Pompano Beach, also struck it rich, winning $2 million from his lottery ticket purchased for just $1 at Publix. Jean bought his lucky ticket from the Publix at 3700 North Federal Highway and claimed his prize from the JACKPOT TRIPLE PLAY drawing on July 26.
Jean opted for the one-time, lump-sum payment of $1,223,575.20, making the win even sweeter. He remarked, "It feels amazing to win... I plan to use this money to help my family and invest for the future!" With nearly $156 million awarded since its inception, JACKPOT TRIPLE PLAY continues to represent significant opportunities for players.
The JACKPOT TRIPLE PLAY allows players to select six numbers from 1 to 46, giving them two ways to win when they match three or more numbers from the same set. With jackpots ranging from $250,000 to $2 million, the excitement around this game is palpable, particularly as it rolls down, increasing the lower-prize levels with each drawing.
Both of these stories not only spotlight individual triumphs but also underline the broader impact of lottery games. Since 2013, the Mega Millions game has generated approximately $1.21 billion for educational purposes, with nearly $2 billion awarded in prizes. Similarly, JACKPOT TRIPLE PLAY has contributed to Florida’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, with over $117.28 million raised to support local education.
Besides funding educational initiatives, these local wins encourage participation among residents. Every ticket purchased helps boost the education system, aligning personal hope with community benefit.
The excitement doesn't stop here, as the next Mega Millions drawing will be held on Friday night at 11 p.m. E.T., with the estimated jackpot climbing to $281 million. Tickets must be purchased by 10 p.m. to be eligible for this drawing, adding to the anticipation.
Overall, the stories of Megan Chora and Appolon Jean remind us of the thrill of the lottery. Whether it's the financial benefits to local entities or the life-altering changes for individuals, wins at Publix continue to inspire hope and encourage players to try their luck.