Virginia Woman Wins Powerball, Donates Winnings to Charity

In an unexpected turn of events, Carrie Edwards from Midlothian, Virginia, used ChatGPT to pick her Powerball numbers, leading her to win $50,000 on September 8th after matching four of the first five numbers plus the Powerball. She opted for the Power Play feature, which tripled her prize to $150,000, according to the Virginia Lottery.

Edwards had a clear vision for her newfound wealth. “I knew I had to give it all, because I was so blessed, and I want this to be an example of how to bless other people when they are blessed,” she shared at a press conference.

Her first donation went to the Society for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), an organization supporting those affected by early-onset dementia through research and education. Edwards expressed a personal connection to the cause, as her late husband and his father had both suffered from illnesses. “The cause is very personal,” she commented, emphasizing her desire to aid other families grappling with similar challenges.

Additionally, Edwards contributes over 400,000 fresh ingredients to Shalom Farm, a nonprofit focused on food justice in Richmond. “Her gifts ensure that families across Richmond continue to have access to high quality, affordable fresh produce,” remarked Anna Ibrahim, executive director of Shalom Farms.

Another significant donation was made to the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), honoring her father, Colonel Peter Swanson, a Navy fighter pilot. This gesture reflects her family’s longstanding commitment to service and support for military families. “Now, Carrie’s extraordinary gifts make the Swanson family’s commitment even stronger,” the NMCRS noted in a Facebook post.

Edwards described her contributions as a representation of healing and community service. “Shalom Farms heal food and soil, AFTD brings hope through research, and the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society continues the tradition of supporting military families,” she explained.

Khalid Jones, executive director of the Virginia Lottery, expressed support for Edwards’ philanthropic choices, stating: “All of us in the lottery are pleased to see this award shared with a valuable cause due to the incredible generosity of Carrie Edwards.”

Interestingly, before winning, Edwards relied on artificial intelligence to select her numbers. “I remember saying, ‘Hey, chat, do you have any numbers for me?’” she recalled. Initially skeptical, she didn’t believe it until she checked her account and saw the winnings.

Although not a frequent lottery player, this experience has illuminated her perspective. “We are blessed to see this unexpected lottery victory serve a greater purpose,” Edwards added.