The Peterborough Humane Society is bringing back its Spring 2026 PHS 50/50 Lottery starting Thursday, April 9, marking the fifth edition of a fundraiser that has quickly turned into one of the community’s more successful feel-good gambles. After last fall’s draw pushed the pot to a record $57,575 — with Allyson Allin of Lakefield taking home $28,787.50 — this latest round is being billed as the biggest yet. Also returning is the popular Marlin Travel & Collette raffle, offering a $5,000 gift certificate toward any Collette travel package through Marlin Travel Peterborough. This time around, there’s more incentive to get in early, with Miskin Law stepping in to sponsor two Early Bird draws: $1,500 on April 17 and $2,000 on May 1. Running through May 15, the lottery raises much-needed funds for animals in care at PHS, as rising costs continue to put pressure on shelters and pet services alike. Tickets are available online at phs5050.ca, with cash sales also offered in person at Peterborough Humane Society and Miskin Law. The grand prize and travel raffle draws take place Friday, May 15 at 1:05 p.m. Since launching in early 2024, the lottery has handed out more than $115,000 in cash prizes — not a bad return for a fundraiser built on helping animals and rewarding a little optimism.