When most people win big in the lottery, their first instinct might be to treat themselves—but not Carrie Edwards. This Virginia woman struck it lucky with a $150,000 Powerball win and decided to give away every cent of it. Rather than spending it on herself, she split the prize between three charities that hold a deep personal meaning for her.
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Jackpot
It all began with a ticket for the September 8 Powerball drawing. Edwards matched four of the five white balls plus the Powerball, which normally nets a $50,000 prize. But thanks to her decision to add the $1 Power Play option, her winnings tripled to $150,000.
For most of us, that would be life-changing money. But Edwards had other plans. The moment she got the check, she handed it right back out—split equally into three $50,000 donations.
Tribute
The first donation went to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). This cause is extremely close to her heart. Her late husband, Steve, passed away from this rare form of early-onset dementia.
October marks World FTD Awareness Month, and Edwards saw this as the perfect opportunity to honor his memory and support others going through similar battles. She said, “God is blessing me so I can bless others through him.” For her, this wasn’t just a gift—it was a tribute to love, loss, and the power of hope.
Farming
Her second donation landed with Shalom Farms, a nonprofit that promotes food justice and equitable access to fresh, healthy food in Richmond, Virginia. The farm isn’t just growing produce—it’s growing possibilities.
Edwards believes Shalom Farms brings healing through the soil. With this donation, more families can gain access to nutritious food, cooking education, and a stronger sense of community. It’s about more than meals—it’s about building a better system.
Support
The final $50,000 gift went to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. This nonprofit assists active-duty and retired service members with emergency aid, education, and financial help.
For Edwards, it’s about honoring service and sacrifice. Whether it’s covering unexpected expenses or helping military families through a rough patch, this organization ensures no one in uniform feels forgotten. With her donation, she’s helping strengthen the very backbone of the military community.
“These three organizations represent healing, service, and community,” Edwards explained. “Shalom Farms heals through food and soil, AFTD brings hope through research, and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society carries forward the tradition of supporting military families.”
Impact
What makes Edwards’ story so remarkable isn’t just the act of giving—but the intention behind it. She didn’t just write checks; she gave purpose to her luck.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how she shared her prize:
| Organization | Donation Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| AFTD – Dementia Research | $50,000 | Honors late husband, funds dementia research |
| Shalom Farms | $50,000 | Promotes food justice, healthy eating, and education |
| Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society | $50,000 | Provides financial and emergency support to service members |
In a world where lottery winners often chase bigger houses or flashier cars, Carrie Edwards chose to chase meaning. Her story is a reminder that unexpected blessings can be powerful tools for good—if we choose to use them that way.
“I feel blessed that this unexpected lottery win can serve a greater purpose,” she said. And thanks to her, that purpose is already being fulfilled.
FAQs
Who is Carrie Edwards?
A Virginia woman who donated her $150K lottery prize.
How much did she win?
She won $150,000 playing the Powerball lottery.
What is Power Play?
An option that multiplies non-jackpot winnings in Powerball.
Where did the donations go?
To AFTD, Shalom Farms, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
Why did she donate all the money?
To honor her husband and help causes she believes in.
