The National Council on Problem Gambling has unveiled this year’s edition of the Gift Responsibly campaign, reminding players that lottery tickets are unsuitable gifts for children.
Organized by NCPG alongside the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University, the campaign has been supported by 63 lotteries and 53 non-lottery organizations.
The campaign sees participating organizations deliver education campaigns to communities on the dangers associated with buying lottery tickets for children, with an additional focus on the risks of youth gambling.
Throughout December, people will be reminded that gambling at a young age can be damaging, threatening to entrench gambling activity throughout one’s life.
“Youth problem gambling has emerged as a significant and growing public health issue,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director.
“We are thrilled to have such support from the lottery community, as well as the non-lottery participants, for the 2022 Gift Responsibly Campaign as we work to minimize gambling-related harm.”
Returning for a fifth consecutive year, Gift Responsibly now offers several levels of participation for lotteries, with those committing to higher levels offering additional campaigning activities.
The campaign has also been endorsed by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, as well as European Lotteries.
Jeffrey Derevensky, Director of the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors said: “The Gift Responsibly Campaign is a great way to promote responsible gambling by encouraging adults to only gift lottery tickets to other adults.”
