Summary
The two organizations are partnering together to discourage unhealthy gambling behaviors.
The Illinois Council on Problem Gambling is working together with the Illinois Lottery this Holiday season to promote responsible gambling. The ICPG’s Gift Responsibly Campaign is designed to help increase awareness of the inappropriateness of gifting lottery products to vulnerable persons, especially to minors.
“Lottery products, especially Instant Tickets, are a popular gift during the holiday season but they are not an appropriate gift for those under the age of 18,” said Illinois Lottery Director Harold Mays. “Responsible gaming is an integral part of the Illinois Lottery, and we are pleased to once again support the Gift Responsibly Campaign this holiday season by reminding players that lottery games are for adults only.”
According to David Wohl, Executive Director of ICPG, “Studies have shown that gambling at an early age can increase the risk of problem gambling later in life, including a strong association between age of gambling onset and problem gambling severity among those who receive lottery tickets.”
Wohl also stated, “We value our partnership with the Illinois Lottery and applaud their commitment to raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling through the Gift Responsibly Campaign.”
The Illinois Lottery’s website hosts a page dedicated to informing customers on how to responsibly play the lottery.
If you or someone you know are affected by problem gambling, you are encouraged to call the toll-free number 1-800-GAMBLER for help.
