RALEIGH – Maria Damian of Raleigh says her $150,000 lottery win means more money saved for her children’s college education.

Damian, a transportation provider for special needs children, purchased the lucky $5 Golden 7’s ticket at the Rush Street Food Mart on Shelden Drive in Raleigh. After state and federal taxes were withheld, she received a check for $103,876.

“I never expected to win anything like this,” Damian said. “I really just play for fun. It’s a very emotional feeling, winning the lottery. I really can’t describe it.”

The Golden 7’s game went on sale on July 1, 2014. As of Tuesday afternoon, two $150,000 top prizes remain to be claimed in the game.

Ticket sales have made it possible for the lottery to raise more than $3.6 billion for the state. Net proceeds will be used this year to help pay salaries of teachers and teacher assistants, for pre-kindergarten programs for at-risk four-year-olds, for school construction and repair, and need-based college scholarships and financial aid.

For details on how more than $275 million in lottery funds have made a difference for specific education programs in Wake County, click on the “Where the Money Goes” tab on the lottery’s website.