2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign Urges Against Gifting Lottery Tickets to Children

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University have jointly launched the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign. This global initiative is designed to highlight the risks associated with giving lottery tickets as gifts to children and adolescents. The campaign has garnered support from 66 lotteries and 84 community organizations across the globe, all with a shared message – lottery products are not suitable gifts for kids.

The NCPG referenced research data indicating that children exposed to gambling are more likely to develop gambling-related problems later in life. Typically, children come into contact with lottery products when adults, often unaware of the associated risks, gift them.

The 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign is now in its sixth year, receiving backing from all eligible lotteries in the United States and Canada, as well as international lotteries and non-lottery organizations worldwide. The campaign also enjoys support from key associations like the World Lottery Association and European Lotteries.

Running throughout November and December, the campaign will educate communities on the risks linked to giving lottery tickets to children. This initiative will utilize in-store signage, training for retail employees, and social media outreach. The primary goal is to raise awareness among adults, emphasizing that lottery products are not appropriate gifts for youngsters.

Keith Whyte, NCPG’s executive director, stressed the importance of adults refraining from gifting lottery tickets to children, especially during the holiday season. He praised the support from organizations and lotteries, underscoring the campaign's commitment to youth protection and responsible gambling worldwide.

Jeffrey Derevensky, director of the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors, emphasized that amid the global expansion of gambling, adults must understand its impact on the younger generation. He urged adults to refrain from gifting lottery tickets to children, serving as a vital reminder of the campaign's purpose.