The National Council on Problem Gambling has linked with 66 lottery corporations to warn Americans about the dangers of problem gambling for minors.
Each year, the NCPG and lotteries team up for the Gift Responsibly campaign, trying to reduce the number of lottery products bought as gifts for minors over the holiday season.
Throughout December, the organizations will work to educate communities on the risks associated with minors engaging with lottery products and raise awareness of the importance of responsible gaming among those of legal age.
The campaign also collaborates with the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University, which provides research and statistics to support the efforts.
Jeffrey Derevensky, Director of the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours, said: “With the growing social acceptability and opportunities available for gambling on an international level, it is important to remember that even young people may experience gambling-related problems. The Gift Responsibly Campaign is a great reminder for adults not to gift lottery tickets to minors.”
2023 marks the sixth consecutive year of the Gift Responsibly campaign and 100% of US and Canadian lotteries have joined the cause, which is also endorsed by regional and international bodies such as the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, the World Lottery Association, and the European Lotteries.
Gift Responsibly offers multiple tiers of activity for lotteries to participate in varying levels of engagement. Participating lotteries can provide public service announcements, social media messaging, digital advertising, as well as in-store messaging all providing the same message that children should not gamble in any way, shape or form.
Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the NCPG, added: “As we embrace the spirit of giving during the holiday season, it’s crucial to recognize that lottery tickets are not suitable gifts for children or teens. We applaud the numerous lotteries and community organizations for joining the campaign to amplify this vital message, fostering public awareness and understanding of the potential risks associated with youth gambling.
“The Gift Responsibly campaign stands out as one of the largest international responsible gambling awareness campaigns, underlining our collective commitment to safeguarding youth and promoting responsible gambling practices worldwide.”
