TORONTO - Eugene Melnyk has launched a new fundraising initiative on behalf of Alpine Canada aimed at helping cover the costs of housing and feeding the country's skiers.

The plan offers 3,000 special Alpine Canada memberships available via the website win2010.ca at a price of $100, which includes a two-year subscription to SRC (Ski Racing Canada) Magazine.

Members are also eligible to win one of over 700 prizes with a total value of more than $250,000, highlighted by an all-inclusive trip to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Melnyk, the Canadian businessman and Ottawa Senators owner, bought the first 3,000 memberships for his family and friends.

All proceeds go directly to fund costs of national ski team athletes competing in Vancouver.