American Legion officers and members, from left, State Commander Michael Raymond, District Commander Bud Boyer, raffle winner/post member Ted Clark and State Second Vice Commander Jessica Moore. PROVIDED

Santa isn’t the only one bringing holiday cheer this year – the American Legion, Department of Florida is too, with its 50/50 charity raffle!

Recently, a grand prize of over $24,000 was awarded to Ted Clark of American Legion Post 90 here in Cape Coral. Another $24,000 will go to Florida Veterans and their families through The American Legion, Department of Florida.

Cape Coral Legion Post 90 hosted an event to present Clark with his winnings. The American Legion, Department of Florida officers including the state commander, 2nd vice commander and district commander made a special visit to the Post to witness the largest 50/50 raffle payout to date.

When asked what he would do with the funds he received, Clark said he intended to donate some of the winnings to charity. And, of course, buy a few extra Christmas presents for family members.

The mission of the online 50/50 raffles is to support the various programs and services of the American Legion throughout the state of Florida and right here in our local community.

The American Legion, Department of Florida is a part of the largest veterans service organization in the world and is a volunteer organization, run and operated primarily by Veterans.

While its main focus is advocating and supporting veterans and active-duty service members, the Legion’s reach goes well beyond to local youth and local communities.

The Department of Florida has more than 28 programs to aid, rehabilitate and educate veterans, service members, youth and local communities. Its programs promote American traditions within local schools, help stop veteran suicides, advocate for veterans’ rights and benefits and support veterans through their difficult times, such as homelessness, isolation or financial hardship.

As The American Legion, Department of Florida relies on the generosity of its members and patriots, the raffle programs are just one way it raises funds to offset the necessary costs needed to provide these programs. Therefore, the 50/50 raffles will be ongoing and anyone in Florida who is 18 years or older is eligible to enter.

The current draw’s prize pool is already over $41,000 and one lucky winner will take half the cash on Dec. 31! You can support Cape Coral Post 90 when you enter tickets, as they receive a portion of all entries with their Post selected. To enter and get all the details go to florida5050.org/90.

Cape Coral Legion Post 90 is at 1401 S.E. 47th St., Cape Coral. For additional information about the post, please call 239-540-8128, or visit its website at post90swf.org.