Holiday Lottery Campaign Rebrands as Gift Responsibly Campaign to Promote Year-Round Safe Gambling
The Gift Responsibly Campaign (GRC), formerly known as the Holiday Lottery Campaign, aims to prevent underage gambling by discouraging adults from giving lottery tickets to children. This initiative, led by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and McGill University's International Center for Youth Gambling Problems, responds to research showing early exposure to gambling increases the risk of future gambling problems.
The campaign's rebranding extends its message beyond the holiday season to cover all gift-giving occasions, including birthdays and graduations. It offers three new creative design options with digital files for social media sharing.
Key Features of the Campaign:
- Focuses on responsible gift-giving year-round
- Endorsed by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL)
- Provides various engagement levels for participating organizations
- Achieved 100% participation from Canadian and U.S. lotteries for three consecutive years
Research has shown that early exposure to lottery games can lead to problematic gambling behavior later in life. The campaign reinforces lottery corporation policies regarding age restrictions while promoting responsible gambling practices.
For gambling-related support:
- Call or text: 1-800-522-4700
- Available: 24/7
- Services: Free, anonymous, and confidential
The International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors has spent 25 years researching youth gambling issues and developing prevention programs. They continue to work with government agencies worldwide to implement responsible gambling initiatives.
Note: The expanded campaign maintains its focus on the holiday season while enabling participating organizations to promote responsible lottery gifting throughout the year.