Medina Salvation Army raffling Goodyear Blimp ride to support community programs

The Friends of the Salvation Army in Medina are raffling off a Goodyear Blimp ride for four, with proceeds supporting local programs that provide food, emergency aid and youth services.

Karl Gerhard

Proceeds from the raffle will fund Salvation Army programs in Medina County, including meals, groceries, and emergency assistance for local families.

Published September 3, 2025 - 5:00 a.m.

Only 200 tickets are available at $100 each, with the winner announced Sept. 29 in a Facebook Live drawing to benefit the Salvation Army’s mission in Medina County.

The Friends of the Salvation Army in Medina are offering a once-in-a-lifetime prize to raise money for families in need: a ride for four on the iconic Goodyear Blimp.

Only 200 raffle tickets will be sold at $100 each, with the goal of raising $20,000 to support the Salvation Army’s outreach programs in Medina County. Tickets are available through Sept. 25, and the winner will be announced during a Facebook Live drawing on Sept. 29.

The blimp ride, donated by Goodyear, can be scheduled at a later date directly with the company.

“This raffle is more than just a fun prize — it directly supports the vital work of the Salvation Army in Medina,” said Sandy Hinkle, an advisory board member and former executive director of Feeding Medina County.

In 2024, the Medina Salvation Army served more than 8,000 people through programs addressing food insecurity, youth development and emergency assistance. That included 6,571 meals served, 2,782 families provided groceries, and 93 households receiving help with rent or utilities. At Christmas, 373 families were supported, with 9,195 toys and gifts distributed to 658 children and 103 seniors.

Captain Tracy Knappins, corps officer of the Salvation Army Medina Corps, said the raffle proceeds will ensure those services continue. “We are committed to helping our neighbors in need, and the community’s support makes all of this possible,” she said.

Tickets can be purchased online at give.salvationarmy.org/event/medina-goodyear-blimp-raffle/e710182. Those preferring to buy in person may contact the Salvation Army Medina Corps at 330-722-6488.

The Salvation Army Medina Corps is located at 425 W. Liberty St.