Family algorithm leads to big ohio lottery win
Hundred dollar bills - Stock Photo © BS Photos.

Family algorithm leads to big Ohio Lottery win

February 24, 2026

Columbus man says prayer for nonprofit answered with $25K Pick 5 win

COLUMBUS, OH – A Columbus man who said he prayed for financial support for his nonprofit organization saw that hope materialize when a February 15 Pick 5 ticket delivered a $25,208.50 win.

The winner and his wife regularly play the lottery using a number-selection method created by her grandmother. The couple said they have long hoped for a win that could help fund Youth Mind Builders, the nonprofit they founded to provide financial literacy education and keep children engaged in positive activities.

Their ticket for the Sunday evening Pick 5 drawing matched all five numbers straight, 6-8-2-5-7, securing the $25,000 jackpot. The same ticket also included a 120-way box bet, adding $208.50 to the total prize for a combined $25,208.50 payout.

After 26.75% in state and federal taxes, the winner will receive $18,465.23.

He said the funds will be used to purchase games and computers for the nonprofit’s programs.

The winning ticket was purchased at Briggs Stop Mart, located at 3452 Briggs Road in Columbus.

Pick 5 drawings are held daily at 12:29 p.m. and 7:29 p.m. Saturday evening drawings take place during the Cash Explosion television program, which airs from 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Since 1974, the Ohio Lottery has contributed more than $34 billion to education, according to lottery officials.


Key Points

  • A Columbus man won $25,208.50 in the Feb. 15 evening Pick 5 drawing
  • He matched all five numbers straight and added a 120-way box bet
  • The winner plans to use the funds to support his nonprofit Youth Mind Builders
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News