Kathleen Sturt of Prince George is off to see Taylor Swift in Vancouver after winning a raffle held by the Lake Trail Community Education Society (LTCES) in Courtenay.
The raffle raised $26,657 through ticket sales, donations and sponsorships. The proceeds will support essential community programs in the Lake Trail neighbourhood, with a focus on building connections and improving food security.
Sturt said she entered the raffle in order to give the devoted Swifties in her life — her partner Chris and her daughter Layla, 10 — the chance to see the Eras Tour, which wraps up its record-smashing run at BC Place on Dec. 6, 7 and 8.
“My partner has been trying for two years to get tickets, and I thought this would be a perfect bonding experience for him and Layla, especially since it would be Layla’s first major concert,” said Kathleen. “Even though I never win these kinds of things, I thought it was worth trying for a great cause.”
In the announcement from LTCES, Sturt said she thought she was being pranked when she heard the news.
“At first, I thought the message from my friend was just a funny video. When I clicked the link and heard my name, I had to replay it three times because I couldn’t believe it! I called my partner right away — he’s still in shock. When I told Layla, her mouth dropped open, and she squealed, asking, ‘What am I going to wear?’”
They're planning matching “RED” era costumes for the occasion.
“I’m thrilled to attend the concert with other Swifties! I just wish I had more tickets to share with everyone," said Sophia Vaillant, the event organizer who donated the tickets.
“We are incredibly thankful to everyone who participated, donated, and helped make this fundraiser a success," said Anna Rambow, executive director of LTCE. "The funds raised will directly benefit our programs focused on building community and food security. This event has truly demonstrated the power of generosity and its lasting impact.”
For more information about the Lake Trail Community Education Society, visit www.ltces.ca.
