Montreal Canadiens Score for Healthcare with 50/50 Raffle
The Montreal Canadiens are once again leveraging their platform to support vital community initiatives. This week, the team announced a special 50/50 draw benefiting the Jewish General Hospital Foundation, continuing a season-long commitment to charitable giving. The raffle culminates during the Canadiens-New York Islanders game on February 26th.
A Tradition of Giving Back
This isn’t a one-off gesture. The Canadiens have already held two similar 50/50 raffles this season, supporting Les Fleurons Glorieux, which aids members of the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans, and their families, and the Mission Old Brewery, dedicated to ending homelessness. A fourth raffle is planned later in the 2025-2026 season.
The Jewish General Hospital: A Montreal Institution
The Jewish General Hospital (JGH), a teaching hospital affiliated with McGill University, has been serving Montreal’s diverse population since 1934. Recognized as one of the top 10 hospitals in Canada by Newsweek in 2025, the JGH is a cornerstone of healthcare in Quebec. The hospital delivers over 3,600 babies annually and operates one of the province’s busiest emergency rooms.
“Tomorrows Are Made Here” Campaign
The fundraising efforts come at a crucial time for the JGH. The hospital is currently in the midst of a seven-year, $400 million philanthropic campaign, “Tomorrows Are Made Here.” This ambitious initiative focuses on four key areas: digital health initiatives, groundbreaking research, an improved patient experience, and building a strong endowment.
How the Funds Will Be Used
According to Bram Freedman, President and CEO of the JGH Foundation, the funds raised through the Canadiens’ 50/50 draw will be instrumental in acquiring innovative digital tools, advancing cutting-edge research, and providing exceptional patient care. The hospital aims to shape the future of healthcare through its influential research center.
The Growing Trend of Sports Teams Supporting Healthcare
The Canadiens’ commitment reflects a broader trend of professional sports teams actively supporting healthcare institutions. This partnership model allows teams to leverage their fan base and brand recognition to raise significant funds and awareness for critical medical causes. Here’s a win-win, enhancing the team’s community image while providing vital resources to hospitals.
Participating in the Raffle
Fans can purchase 50/50 tickets online at jgh5050.com. Tickets will as well be available for purchase in person at the Bell Centre during the February 26th game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 50/50 raffle? A 50/50 raffle is a fundraising event where half of the total money collected from ticket sales goes to the designated charity (in this case, the Jewish General Hospital Foundation), and the other half is awarded as a prize to a winning ticket holder.
Where does the money from the raffle go? The funds raised will support the Jewish General Hospital’s “Tomorrows Are Made Here” campaign, focusing on digital health, research, patient experience, and endowment.
How can I participate? You can purchase tickets online at jgh5050.com or at the Bell Centre during the Canadiens-Islanders game on February 26th.
What is the goal of the “Tomorrows Are Made Here” campaign? The campaign aims to raise $400 million over seven years to enhance patient care, advance medical research, and improve the hospital’s infrastructure.
Did you grasp? The Jewish General Hospital was founded in 1934 and has a long history of providing exceptional healthcare to the Montreal community.
Pro Tip: Purchasing a 50/50 ticket is a simple way to support a vital community institution and potentially win a significant prize!
Learn more about the Canadiens’ community initiatives at canadiens.com/tirage.
What other ways do you think sports teams can support local hospitals? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
