Ever since assuming a leadership role in the Kiwanis Club of Weeki Wachee, Jamie-Lynn Hamilton has been on a mission to help needy children in Hernando. Now, Hamilton is calling on the community to join the effort; all while enjoying a classic game that never fails to bring a smile to the face of players.
The Kiwanis Club of Weeki Wachee will host a bingo event on Sunday, June 11, at the Masaryktown Community Center, located at 539 Lincoln Ave., Masaryktown. Doors open at 3 pm and the games will start at 5 pm. The event will also include dinner and a 50/50 raffle.
“The Kiwanis of Weeki Wachee is doing something new. We have a fundraising bingo we are doing for the first time to raise money for our Polar Express this year,” said Hamilton. “We are partnering with Becky at the Masaryktown Community Center, to raise money.” The Polar Express is a festive Yuletide event that transports area foster kids to a veritable winter wonderland of gifts, treats, and jubilant decorations.
“The proceeds will go directly to our set up and food and gifts and everything for the foster kids in Hernando County,” stated Hamilton.
Through events such as bingo, Hamilton hopes to extend the charitable reach of her organization. “Last year we raised enough to help 150 kids but this year as a new president my goal is to do more. I’d love it if we can help 200+,” said Hamilton. “We have sponsors and baskets raffled off and there will be 50/50, an Italian dinner and a horse race pull tabs.”
Hamilton hopes to make the bingo event a permanent fixture of her group’s fund-raising calendar. “This will become an annual event as our primary way of raising money each year if it goes well,” she said.
Admission to bingo is $35. This admission price includes the bingo games, dinner and supplies. For ticket information, call 352-263-0093. Ask for Jamie. Sponsors for this event include Caffe Connection, Brijbag Law, Comfort Control Specialists, Always Near Home Care, Major Plumbing, Insight Realty, Dynamic Auto Body, Complete Automotive, Mark Johnson, D&D Grading, Vema Home Inspections, Extreme Chocolates, Tru Grace, Sunshine Boutique and Hernando Community Coalition.
“It’s only $35 for a ticket,” she said, “and I’d love it if we could have a killer turn out.”