British Columbians will have the chance to support Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) in their communities with a new online 50/50 campaign – Big BC Lotto – that
will help agencies maintain mentorship programs and operations impacted by COVID-19.
On top of the growing need for volunteers, the pandemic has caused increased strain on children and youth, BBSS says.
“One in four kids says their friendships have been negatively affected by stay-at-home orders, and loneliness was the third most-used word by kids between the ages of
10 and 17 when describing how they’ve felt,” said spokesperson Jane Gauthier.
BBBS staff pivoted programming when the pandemic first hit, to ensure support can be provided in a virtual manner.
“There has also been the added stress BBBS agencies have faced with the loss of in-person fundraising events and a decrease in donations.”
Eleven agencies across the province are working together to offer Big BC Lotto – for many, it will be the first time they’ve ever executed a 50/50 raffle online.
It will be the first digital lottery that residents will be able to take part in to support children and youth in their own communities.
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