Waterford District High School is getting ready to welcome hundreds of bingo players through its doors for a popular fundraiser that helps more students take part in school life.
The school’s Community Bingo returns Wednesday, October 28, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and games beginning at 6 p.m. in the school’s large gym.
Jennifer Thompson, a teacher at WDHS and one of the event organizers, says the bingo has been running for about six years and has developed a loyal following.
The event has grown beyond Waterford, with Thompson saying players now travel from communities such as Brantford to take part.
This year’s bingo will feature 10 games, along with a 50/50 draw. Shaw’s Dogs and Spuds will also be on site serving food truck favourites, while Mr. Mayo returns as the bingo announcer.
The school can accommodate more than 400 people in the gym, and Thompson says a recent donation from Birdtown Jamboree and Sticks and Picks has also helped improve the sound system.
While the evening is about having fun, the money raised has an important purpose. Proceeds help remove financial barriers that could prevent students from participating in extracurricular activities.
The funding can help with expenses such as club and equipment fees, school gear, competition costs, event admission and tickets to activities such as dances and prom.
The fundraiser also gives WDHS students a chance to help run a major community event.
With the school’s enrollment growing, Thompson says she is expecting plenty of student help for this year’s event.
Community Bingo is an 18-plus event because of its lottery licence. Bingo booklets are $10 and the event is cash only at the door.
Written by Jeremy Hall
