Grandparents raising their three grandchildren after they lost their mother to Lupus won the second-tier prize in the March lottery, officials announced on Tuesday.

ABC reports that Rande and Jackie, of Long Branch, won $1 million from the March 31 Mega Millions drawing, after their ticket matched up all five white balls drawn.

“This will be the beginning of good fortune to our family,” said Jackie.

After paying off immediate bills, the couple plans to save the rest to help their grandchildren have brighter futures. According to friend Debbie, both Rande and Jackie are extremely deserving of the winnings, having taken over care of their three young grandchildren after their mother tragically passed away.

“They are the most deserving people in New Jersey. They have helped so many other people in their times of need and now it is their turn to receive this very necessary blessing.”

“I am just very grateful,” Rande said to lottery officials. “This will help our lives out a lot.”

The couple’s winning numbers were 17-24-27-32-58.

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[Feature Photo: New Jersey Lottery]