Providence woman wins $500,000 with Ocean State Riches

A Providence resident is celebrating a windfall after winning $500,000 playing the Rhode Island Lottery's Ocean State Riches instant game.

The lucky woman plans to use her winnings to purchase a brand-new car. She bought the winning ticket at Acme Liquors on Chalkstone Avenue in Providence.

How to play Ocean State Riches

Feeling lucky? Here's how to play Ocean State Riches. For a chance to win the $500,000 top prize, simply grab a $30 ticket. Reveal the hidden numbers on your ticket and match them to the winning numbers. If they match, you win the prize shown for that number. Look for the special Bonus symbol. If you reveal a Cash Stack symbol, you win the prize shown. Found a Star symbol? You win that prize instantly! The overall odds of winning are 1 in 3.57.

More April lottery winners in Rhode Island

It's been a winning month for Rhode Island Lottery players! Here are some other lucky winners:

• A $50,000 Ruby Red 7s ticket was purchased at Dan's Convenience in Warwick.
• A $30,000 Holiday Winnings 10X ticket was purchased from Stop and Shop in Newport.
• A Westerly resident won a whopping $150,000 Powerball Power Play ticket for the $1.326 billion jackpot drawing.

Everyone wins with the Rhode Island Lottery

Did you know that when you play the Rhode Island Lottery, everyone benefits? Since 1974, the Lottery has contributed more than $8.3 billion to the state's General Fund. This fund supports vital services across Rhode Island, from education and healthcare to public safety and environmental protection.

The benefits extend beyond lottery winners. Sales commissions are paid to retailers who sell lottery products, supporting small businesses and restaurants throughout the state. The Lottery's impact goes far beyond the initial ticket purchase, contributing significantly to the local economy.

A rich history

The Rhode Island Lottery boasts a long history dating back to 1974. Here are some interesting milestones:

• 1974: Legislation establishes the Lottery to replace revenue lost from a change in car sales tax regulations. The first lottery ticket, costing 50 cents, goes on sale. This weekly game offered a top prize of $50,000. The very first Lottery drawing for "The Lot" game was held at the State House.
• 1976: The Rhode Island Lottery introduces its first instant ticket. The game, called Play Ball, cost $1.
• 1987: The Rhode Island Lottery is a founding member of the Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL). This group was established to give smaller states the ability to offer higher prizes.

Will you be the next Rhode Island Lottery winner? Grab a ticket and try your luck! Remember, even if you don't win the jackpot, you're still contributing to the betterment of the state.