Pilgrims Hospices Lottery: From small beginnings to over 21,000 entries

1996 saw the beginnings of Pilgrims Hospices Lottery, with an army of volunteers stomping the streets to gain supporters and willing participants to our first ever draw in April 1996.

Nearly 30 years on, and thanks to many of the same early collectors and members, we go from strength to strength. Our draw now has over 21,000 entries every week and continues to grow. It’s a fun and easy way to give and be part of the Pilgrims community, providing regular, sustainable funds to go towards Pilgrims very special services. Did you know that more than 5,500 winners cheques worth over £200k are sent out every year?!

Following the success of the weekly draw, we’re delighted to say that we’ve also been able to add several associated products to our portfolio over the years, which have proven to be very popular. We now offer scratch cards, wedding favours and gift vouchers for any event – including Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries.

Fun facts!

In 2024, our dedicated team of Lottery Collectors walked over 3,000 miles, the Lottery team signed up over 4,000 new entries and we congratulated more than 5,500 lucky winners.

Plus, our ever-popular Christmas Superdraw; 2024 year, with £75,000 brought in. This was our most successful Superdraw in over a decade. Thank you to the thousands of you who took part and made such a difference to so many. It really does mean a lot to us all at Pilgrims, particularly special and appreciated in these challenging times.

As a weekly lottery, we contribute to good news and happy memories. We like to tell and be told good news stories, the joys of winning, the difference a win can make; going towards holidays, celebrations, treats for children and grandchildren alike, creating blissful flashbacks and treasured moments. Our very kind and generous supporters have donated thousands of pounds worth of winnings to Pilgrims Hospices in this last year alone. Thank you so very much, it really does make such a big difference and helps us continue to provide our compassionate care to those who need it the most.

We are still fantastic value at just £1 a week per entry! Join today!

Call us on 01227 379 741 or visit pilgrimshospices.org/lottery.

We would love you to join us!

With best wishes,

Shiralee, Lottery Manager

Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.