RICHBURG, N.Y. — Leona Enders, 75, enjoys a spirited round of gin rummy with her friend Cathy at the fireman's club in Richburg, in Allegany County.

Her love of all games, like cards, spans generations.

What You Need To Know

  • Bingo is back in fire halls across New York

  • The popular game provides more than just the chance to win a jackpot

  • Bingo enables seniors to get out and socialize

"Something very easy to do. Always played with my kids, all kinds of games, and still do," said Enders, of Belfast.

Soon after, Leona trades her cards for cash and joins dozens of others for a spirited high-stakes night of bingo.

Enders buys a number of bingo sheets and then tapes each one together in the order of play. She's been playing the popular game since she was a young girl and has been dabbing her cards every week there for about eight years. 

"Cause I win a lot. I'll be truthful, there is not a lot to do for seniors, especially seniors. And this is a simple game that almost anybody can play," Enders said.

The club has been hosting the popular game since 1976, and just re-opened in January after an almost three-year shutdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"It's community. A lot of people were sending us messages and saying 'when are you going to start bingo again?' We're ready to start bingo again. We miss you guys. We miss getting together, every Monday, every week. And just socializing. So, it's more than just a fundraiser," said Susan Lananger, the bingo co-chair.

The money raised goes to the local fire department. Organizers say proceeds help buy equipment like pagers and radios, as well as gloves and specialized nozzles.

"Our tax base isn't big here. We're a small community. It's something we've just always done and it's just, it's kind of a tradition. They get a chance to win some money, so that's always a plus," said Susan.

During a visit, Leona didn't get to yell "bingo," but says she's glad to be back, surrounded by friends and lots of people she knows.

"It's to be out and not be home alone. Because it gets you out of the house and socializing with 50, 60, 70 people. It's good for everybody to socialize and not be stuck in the house doing nothing," said Leona.

If no one hits the jackpot, it keeps growing week to week until someone does.

It's important to note: Bingo is a form of social gambling and so non-profit organizations do need a license to conduct the games. Under state guidelines, organizations must register with the New York State Gaming Commission and follow all rules and regulations. In addition, all winnings must be reported on your tax return as other income.