Throughout November and December 66 lotteries and 84 community organizations, throughout North America and abroad, will take part in the National Council on Problem Gambling’s (NCPG) 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign. As research has demonstrated that early exposure to gambling in childhood can lead to problem gambling behaviors later in life, this campaign aims to educate people on the risk of giving lottery tickets as holiday presents for children.
This is the sixth consecutive year the campaign has worked to spread its message: “Lottery products are not appropriate gifts for children.” The campaign has been endorsed by the World Lottery Association, by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries and the European Lotteries.
As well as US state, Canadian province and national lotteries (like those of New Zealand and Croatia), several organizations focused on either gaming or healthcare have also joined the program, including: Scientific Games, Amplify, Blue Ridge Behavioral Health Care, COMPASS Family and Community Services, IGT, United Way Problem Gambling Coalition, Recovery Resources, Pollard Banknote and Nicasa Behavioral Health Services.
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.”
All 66 lotteries and organizations will promote responsible gambling for people choosing to gamble at the legal age in their region. Tiered levels of participation give each organization a way to choose how actively to campaign and may include participants creating public service announcements, posting and messaging via social media, online advertising and retail/in-store training for employees selling lottery products.
Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director, said, “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."
