RALEIGH – Ronnie Versteeg of Cary plans to use the $750,000 he won playing the instant scratch-off game, Jumbo Bucks, to take a beach trip and invest in his retirement.

“It was a life-changing moment,” Versteeg said as he collected his winnings Monday morning. “It enables our family to not worry so much about the future. I am extremely grateful for the security it provides for us.”

Versteeg scratched off the lucky $10 ticket in his home after purchasing it at the Food Lion on Northeast Maynard Road in Cary. After state and federal taxes were withheld, Versteeg received a check for $519,003.

“I enjoy the lottery because I’m doing good while I play,” Versteeg said. “Our family cares a lot about education. Therefore, anything that funnels money into the system is great because it helps the future of our kids in North Carolina.”

Ticket sales have made it possible for the lottery to raise more than $3.3 billion for the state. Net proceeds are used for prekindergarten programs for at-risk four-year-olds, teachers’ salaries in grades K-3, school construction, digital learning initiatives, need-based college scholarships and financial aid.

For details on how more than $233.6 million in lottery funds have made a difference in Wake County, click on the “Where the Money Goes” tab on the lottery’s website.