The Manitoba government is launching a new province-wide lottery that will award nearly $2 million in cash and scholarships in an effort to encourage Manitobans to get fully vaccinated as soon as possible.
Premier Brian Pallister made the announcement today, saying that all people who have been immunized with either a first or second dose are automatically eligible and will be entered into the lottery.
Manitobans must receive their first dose of a vaccine by August 2nd to be eligible for the first draw, and for the second draw, they need to get their second dose by September 6th.
Grand prizes of $100 thousand will be awarded in every health region, and there will be 10 draws for scholarships of $25-thousand each for people between the age of 12 and 17.
Pallister says there are thousands of Manitobans who want to get the vaccine, but they need support.
"That's why we launched the Community Outreach and Incentive grant last week, to encourage organizations and businesses to get involved."
Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries will be responsible for conducting the lotteries, and a third-party auditor will provide additional oversight.
Pallister added that there will be more details on what big-crowd events could be allowed later this week, when the pandemic reopening plan is announced.
