Governor Doug Ducey and the Arizona Lottery are announcing a record breaking third quarter transfer of funds to statewide community organizations for fiscal year 2016.

More than $64 million was transferred to Lottery beneficiaries in the third quarter, which is approximately $20 million more than the average quarterly transfer. The increase is a result of record sales during the third quarter, driven by the $1.5 billion Powerball jackpot.

Since July 2015, the Arizona Lottery has transferred more than $145 million back to the State of Arizona and is on track to surpass its fiscal year 2016 goal of distributing more than $184 million dollars.

“This announcement is exciting news for Arizonans who directly benefit from the programs and community organizations funded by the Arizona Lottery,” said Governor Ducey. “This historic lottery transfer supports a number of important priorities including educational excellence, protecting our communities and the health of all Arizonans.”

The Arizona Lottery transfers dollars to 13 legislatively mandated funds that serve 18 beneficiaries. Funding supports organizations throughout Arizona in the areas of Arts and Education, Community Enrichment, Economic Development, Environmental Conservation, Health and Human Services and Public Safety.

“The growth in our beneficiary transfers this quarter will have a direct impact on the people of our state,” said Gregg Edgar, executive director of the Arizona Lottery. “Every ticket purchase supports the mission of the Arizona Lottery, inspiring its employees and retail partners alike to have a positive impact on the state. In its 35 year history, the Arizona Lottery has transferred more than $3.4 billion to Arizona beneficiaries.”