An Ottawa woman who won a multi-million dollar lottery prize is ensuring her community has a merry Christmas by putting holiday dinners on the table. Patty Warden, who hit the Lotto Max jackpot in May 2024, spent December 22, 2025, handing out hundreds of grocery gift cards to shoppers at the Foodland in Greely.
A Winning Hand for Holiday Help
Patty Warden's life changed forever in the spring of 2024 when she won a massive Lotto Max prize. Rather than retreat from public life, the multi-millionaire has consistently looked for ways to give back to the community that was her home. Her latest act of generosity came just days before Christmas, targeting one of the season's most significant expenses: the festive meal.
On a chilly Sunday afternoon, Warden stationed herself at the Greely Foodland, a community grocery store southeast of Ottawa's core. With a smile, she personally distributed gift cards, directly impacting hundreds of local families. The surprise gesture aimed to alleviate financial pressure during a costly time of year, allowing recipients to purchase everything needed for a traditional Christmas dinner.
Continuing a Legacy of Local Giving
This is not a one-time charitable splash for Warden. Since her life-altering win in May 2024, she has engaged in multiple philanthropic efforts, focusing on local, tangible support. Her approach emphasizes direct aid and community connection, choosing initiatives where she can see the immediate impact on her neighbours' lives.
The choice of a grocery gift card is a strategic one. It provides flexibility and dignity, allowing families to select items that fit their traditions and needs. For many, this unexpected windfall could mean the difference between a sparse holiday table and a celebratory feast with all the trimmings.
The Ripple Effect of Community Kindness
Acts of generosity like Warden's have effects that extend beyond the monetary value. They foster a sense of community solidarity, especially during the holiday season. Shoppers at the Greely Foodland on December 22nd received more than just financial assistance; they received a reminder of kindness and shared fortune.
Warden's story challenges the typical narrative of lottery winners, showcasing a path of sustained community investment. By choosing to give back in such a personal and immediate way, she demonstrates how sudden wealth can be channeled into creating positive, local change. Her ongoing commitment suggests that for Patty Warden, winning the lottery was just the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to helping others.
