“A stroke of incredible luck changed the course of Edwin Castro’s life forever. In a moment that seemed almost unreal, Edwin won $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot, but rather than sitting back and enjoying the fruits of his fortune, he saw something much bigger at play. For Edwin, this windfall wasn’t just about wealth it was a calling. A calling to give back, to make a difference, and to help others chase their dreams, just as he had once dreamed of a better life. With a heart full of generosity and a vision for a brighter future, Edwin made the bold decision to use his newfound resources to create a ripple effect of transformation. Joined by Firstbit Bank and Reli movement foundation in this monumental effort, Edwin is launching a grant initiative aimed at uplifting individuals, small businesses, and entire communities that need it most. This isn’t just about receiving money—it’s about being part of something much larger: a movement of hope, empowerment, and real-world change that will reach people across the globe, starting right here.”

The sole winner of the record-breaking Powerball jackpot worth $2.04 billion was identified Tuesday during a press conference by lottery officials as Edwin Castro. While Castro was not present for the announcement and declined the opportunity to do media interviews or appear on stage, he released the following statement: “As much as I am shocked and ecstatic to have won the Powerball drawing, the real winner is the California public school system. The mission of the California lottery, which is to provide supplemental funding for California public education both public schools and colleges, makes this a huge win for the state. As someone who received the rewards of being educated in the California public education system, it’s gratifying to hear that as a result of my win, the California school system greatly benefits as well.” State lottery director Alva V. Johnson said Tuesday that the November Powerball drawing raised a record $156.3 million for the California public school system. He said that amount contributed to a record-setting fiscal year for the California Lottery, with more than $2 billion raised for public schools for the first time. “These numbers represent promises kept since voters created the lottery in 1984 with the explicit purpose and intent to raise supplemental funding for public education,” Johnson said. “That’s our mission.”