CELEBRATING HOOSIER HEROES IN MAY

Contributions surpass $6.3 billion for local police and firefighters’ pensions, the Teachers’ Retirement Fund and the Lottery Surplus Fund

INDIANAPOLIS (May 4, 2021) – During the month of May the Hoosier Lottery will celebrate Hoosier Heroes during International Firefighters’ Day (May 4), National Teacher Appreciation Day (May 5), Teacher Appreciation Week (May 3-7) and National Police Week (May 9-15). Since the first Scratch-off ticket was sold on October 13, 1989, the Hoosier Lottery has returned more than $6.3 billion to the State of Indiana as part of its commitment to build a Stronger, Safer, Smarter Indiana.

For over 30 years, Hoosier Lottery funds have benefited every county throughout Indiana. The return to the State has been used for the following good causes:

• Supporting those who gave Indiana’s children the gift of learning by contributing more than $917 million to the Teachers’ Retirement Fund.
• Contributing to the retirement of those who dedicated their lives to protecting us by distributing nearly $730 million to local police and firefighters’ pensions.
• Contributing more than $4.6 billion to the Lottery Surplus Fund which is used in part to reduce motor vehicle excise taxes by up to 50% for Hoosier vehicle owners.

Every year, the Hoosier Lottery contributes $30 million to the Teachers’ Retirement Fund and $30 million to local police and firefighters’ pensions.
 

In Fiscal Year 2020 (July 1, 2019 – June 30, 2020), Marion and surrounding counties received $6,431,021 for the Teachers’ Retirement Fund, $9,035,260 for local police and firefighter’ pensions and $76,391,041 for the Lottery Surplus Fund. For a statewide breakdown, visit hoosierlottery.com/givingback.

“It’s hard to believe more than 30 years have passed since the first Scratch-off ticket was sold in Indiana. We’re so proud of the more than $6.3 billion the Hoosier Lottery has given back to Indiana since 1989. This would not be possible without the support of our players and retailers across the state,” said Hoosier Lottery Executive Director Sarah M. Taylor. “The importance of our Hoosier Heroes has never been more apparent than during this pandemic, and we are pleased to support these community champions in their retirement years.”

“Hoosier Lottery Hero of the Game” at Victory Field

This past year many heroes stepped up to the plate. Starting in May, the Hoosier Lottery and Indianapolis Indians are acknowledging individuals for their continued service in our communities and selfless acts for fellow Hoosiers. All season long, the Hoosier Lottery will present a Hero of the Game. On opening weekend May 14-15, July 4 and each Saturday home game, a special hero will be recognized at Victory Field.
 
Hoosiers are invited to nominate a hero in our community—teachers, first responders, medical personnel. It’s an opportunity to say thank you! Visit IndyIndians.com/Hero to submit.