Hurricane Sandy Survivors Hit Lottery Jackpot

Sometimes those that need it the most hit a much-needed jackpot.

Maryann Daino and Dennis Klaus relocated to Connecticut from New York after their home was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy. The two split the $174,544 winnings on Monday that they will use to help pay for a new home.

“I handed Dennis the ticket and told him we won. He didn’t believe me at first, he thought I was kidding him,” Daino said. “I said, ‘No, Dennis, I’m not kidding. This [prize] is our new home.’”

Daino purchased a 5 Card Cash ticket that ended up being a perfect match to the draw Oct. 12, 2014 draw. The two got their affairs in order before claiming the prize.

“We’re leaving here and going straight to the bank to put an offer on a house. It’s the house of our dreams,” Daino said tearfully. “It’s important that people know…you have to keep the faith because there is life afterwards, and there’s a wonderful life waiting.”

Daino purchased the $255,555 top prize winning ticket at New Milford Hess, which will receive a $2,500 bonus check.