66 US & International Lotteries Raise Awareness About the Risks of Youth Gambling this Holiday Season

Washington, DC – Research shows that the earlier the exposure to gambling in childhood, the more likely a person is to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through a lottery product given by an adult who is likely unaware of the associated risks.

In response, 66 lotteries and 84 community organizations from around the world have joined the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign. Presented by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours at McGill University, the campaign aims to spotlight the risks associated with purchasing lottery tickets for children.

Throughout November and December, participating organizations will work to educate communities about the dangers of gifting lottery tickets to children, raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling and promote responsible gambling practices for those of legal age who choose to gamble. The campaign offers a tiered approach for lotteries, with increasing levels of participation. Participant activities may include but are not limited to public service announcements, social media messaging, digital advertising, in-store signage and retailer training, all united by a singular message: lottery products are not appropriate gifts for children.

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.”

For the sixth consecutive year, 100% of eligible U.S. and Canadian lotteries, and numerous international lotteries and non-lottery organizations have joined the campaign. Endorsed by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, the World Lottery Association, and the European Lotteries, the campaign stands as a collaborative, international effort to safeguard the well-being of young people.

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. – Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director.

Participants of the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign:

Lottery Level 3:

Lottery Level 2:

Lottery Level 1:

Non-Lottery Participants: