James Chen still drives the same pickup truck he’s owned for seven years, despite having recently become British Columbia’s newest multi-millionaire. The 52-year-old electrician from Surrey collected his $80 million Lotto Max jackpot last week at BCLC headquarters in Vancouver, ending his two-decade commitment to the same set of numbers.
“I’ve played these numbers since 2005,” Chen explained, gesturing toward the ticket that changed his life. “My kids’ birthdays, my anniversary, and my parents’ house number. I almost switched to quick picks last year, but something told me to stick with them.”
Chen discovered his win after scanning his ticket at a local convenience store following the May 6 draw. “The clerk’s eyes went wide, and then the machine started making this noise I’d never heard before. Everyone in the store was suddenly looking at me.”
According to the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, Chen’s jackpot represents the largest lottery prize ever awarded in the province, surpassing the previous record of $70 million won in 2022. The odds of matching all seven numbers in a Lotto Max draw stand at approximately one in 33 million.
Unlike some winners who quit their jobs immediately, Chen finished his contracted electrical work on three construction projects before coming forward. “Those people were counting on me. The money wasn’t going anywhere,” he said with a shrug. “My father always taught me that your word is all you have.”
Chen and his wife of 26 years, Michelle, have three adult children and two grandchildren. Rather than splurging on luxury items, the couple has established a family foundation that will focus on affordable housing initiatives and educational scholarships for trades training.
“We’ve been comfortable but never wealthy,” Michelle explained. “James worked double shifts when the kids were young. We know what it’s like to worry about making rent. That perspective doesn’t just disappear.”
The family has committed $15 million to help develop affordable housing units in Surrey, where housing prices have risen over 40% in the past five years according to the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board.
Provincial Housing Minister David Eby praised the Chens’ commitment during a press conference yesterday. “While government must lead on housing solutions, community-minded citizens like the Chens demonstrate how private wealth can create meaningful change when directed toward our shared challenges.”
Beyond housing, the family plans to establish a $5 million scholarship fund for Indigenous students pursuing careers in the skilled trades, addressing a critical gap in Canada’s labour market that the Canadian Construction Association estimates could reach 100,000 workers by 2028.
“Education changed everything for me,” James noted. “My parents came here from Taiwan with almost nothing. They pushed me to complete my electrical apprenticeship when I wanted to drop out. Now there’s a shortage of skilled tradespeople across the country.”
Not all the money will go to formal philanthropy. Chen’s mother, 78-year-old Lin Chen, will receive a new home adapted for her mobility needs following a stroke last year. His brother’s struggling restaurant business will get much-needed renovations, and each of his children will receive funds to purchase homes of their own.
Financial planner Samantha Williams, who specializes in sudden wealth management, notes that Chen’s measured approach is uncommon. “We typically see two immediate responses to major lottery wins – either extreme spending or paralysis. The Chens have demonstrated remarkable clarity about their values and priorities.”
When asked about personal indulgences, Chen mentioned only two: a fishing cabin on Vancouver Island and a new set of high-end tools. “Michelle can have whatever she wants, but she’s only asked for a kitchen renovation so far,” he laughed. “Twenty-six years of marriage and she still surprises me.”
BCLC President and CEO Pat Davis noted that approximately 37% of lottery revenues go toward healthcare, education, and community programs across British Columbia. “When someone plays the lottery in BC, they’re already giving back. What makes Mr. Chen’s story special is his commitment to amplifying that impact.”
The Chens’ win comes during a record year for Canadian lotteries, with five jackpots exceeding $50 million already awarded in 2025. Statisticians attribute the rise to increased ticket sales during economic uncertainty, with Canadians spending approximately $9.2 billion annually on lottery products according to the Canadian Gaming Association.
For now, Chen continues to live in the same three-bedroom home he’s owned for 15 years, though the family plans to move once their community initiatives are established. “The money doesn’t define us,” Michelle insisted. “How we use it will.”
As our interview concluded, Chen’s phone rang – his longtime work partner wondering if he was available for an emergency repair at a seniors’ residence. Without hesitation, Chen grabbed his tool belt. “Some things don’t change,” he smiled. “Besides, I promised I’d be there if he needed me.”
