NAMPA, Idaho — Since the start of summer, hundreds across the Treasure Valley have been helping St. Vincent de Paul of Southwest Idaho in their mission to prevent homelessness by buying raffle tickets at $100 a piece in hopes of winning a new Subaru Forester. It's all a part of their annual Summerfest fundraiser.
Well, today, we found out who that winner is -- and I was invited as a guest to blindly pick that lucky person. Watch the above video for the winner's reaction.
“649 people bought tickets for this car," said Ralph May, executive director for St. Vincent de Paul of Southwest Idaho.
The grand prize is an "Jasper Green" 2020 Subaru Forester.
“All-wheel drive, all the bells and whistles, which is just perfect for where we live," said Cory Thomas, general sales manager, Treasure Valley Subaru.
So who is the lucky winner? I'll let you know in a minute. But first, let’s talk about why they’re doing it.
“Many times the person that wins could never buy a new car on their own," said May.
Inspired to help the community, Treasure Valley Subaru donated the 2020 Forester to St. Vincent de Paul to give away so they can use it as a fundraising tool to continue empowering Idahoans during these hard times.
“To prevent homelessness, especially at a time that’s so crucial, and that’s really hitting our community," said Thomas.
St. Vincent de Paul does this through their food pantries (which have converted to drive-thru and mobile recently) and other programs like these: "Whether they need rent and utility assistance," said May. "Whether they need help with food, whether they need [anything] when they’re coming out of prison or jail, we can do something to make your life easier.”
A brand new car like the one up for grabs can definitely make life easier. Not to mention, if the winner keeps the car wrap on, which features the Treasure Valley Subaru and St. Vincent de Paul of Southwest Idaho logos, they get a special offer.
“We offer free maintenance for as long as they do it, and a full tank of gas every week," said Thomas.
So are you ready to learn who the winner is?
"Drum roll," I said. "Alright, I’ll do the honors... Susan Davies of Boise, alright! Wooo! Susan!”
Congratulations Susan.
“I think Susan is going to be very happy with this car," said Thomas.
The St. Vincent team stopped by her residence this afternoon to let her know.
"No, you’re kidding me," said Davies, shocked. "My son was just rear ended a week ago and totaled my car. Oh my gosh.”
May said everyone's participation will directly help those recovering from the impacts of the pandemic.
“For everyone that bought a ticket for this raffle, we just appreciate you so very much, you have prevented homelessness in the Treasure Valley today with your actions," said May.
Five additional winners were chosen to win $1,000 gift cards to Costco, Albertson's, Cabela’s, Home Depot, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Those winners can be found here.
