Yardley Resident Wins Pickering Manor's 2024 Car Raffle

NEWTOWN, PA – Following months of raffle ticket sales and dreams of winning a new car or $25,000 in cash, a crowd gathered inside the lobby at Pickering Manor on a recent Friday evening waiting in eager anticipation as the winning ticket for this year's car raffle was drawn.

Finally, at 6:30 p.m. sharp, the winning number was announced. And that number belonged to Jeri Rogers of Yardley who wasn't present for the drawing, but was quite surprised when she received a call from Pickering Manor’s Director of Development Maureen Kuhar with the good news.

Faced with the tough decision between a new car or $25,000 cash, the retired teacher and former Pickering Manor volunteer decided to take the cash.

Rogers, who has lived in Yardley for more than 40 years, volunteered at Pickering Manor prior to COVID playing bridge and leading arts and crafts with the residents.

“I was really shocked that I won," said Rogers. "What a surprise. I have been trying for many years. You never expect to win these things.”

Sharing in the excitement of this year's raffle was Justin Geller of Southampton, who clinched the second-place prize - a $1,000 Visa gift card.

Pickering Manor has been hosting its highly successful car raffle for nearly a decade now, evolving into a cherished fundraising tradition that culminates with the drawing of the winning ticket and a cocktail reception.

This year's event was no exception, setting a record with more than 600 tickets sold.

Pickering's CEO David Woodhead announces this year's raffle winner after the ticket was pulled by resident Mildred (Millie) Sauermelch. (Pickering Manor photo)

The suspenseful drawing took place after a pre-drawing cocktail hour, attended by nearly 100 enthusiastic ticket holders. Pickering Manor’s very own personal care resident, Mildred (Millie) Sauermelch, had the honor of pulling the winning ticket from the raffle drum.

"We are thrilled to see the continued success of our annual car raffle and are immensely grateful for the overwhelming support from our community," said David Woodhead, CEO at Pickering Manor. "The funds raised will significantly contribute to enhancing the lives of our residents and furthering our mission of providing quality care and support."

Helping to make the special evening possible were raffle sponsors The First National Bank & Trust Company of Newtown and the Peruzzi Auto Group, which donated the car. Additionally, recognition goes to Sparkle Car Wash for their valued contribution.

For more information about Pickering Manor and opportunities to support its mission, visit www.pickeringmanor.org or contact Maureen Kuhar at 215.968.3878 or mkuhar@pickeringmanor.org.

Guests mingle during a cocktail reception in the lobby at Pickering Manor. (Pickering Manor photo)