DC Lottery Reminds Players to #GiftResponsibly
Lottery tickets aren't child's play.
Washington, DC – The DC Lottery has announced its commitment as a Platinum Level supporter of the 2021 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining more than 80 other lotteries and community organizations from across the US and Canada, and around the world. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University. It is endorsed by the World Lottery Association (WLA) and the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).
“Our return participation in this national awareness initiative, is another example of the DC Lottery’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility. The Gift Responsibly Campaign raises awareness about the risks associated with giving lottery products as gifts to minors during the holiday season -- or any time of the year,“ said Nicole Jordan, director of marketing and communications. “Research linking early exposure to gambling to future problem gambling and other risky behaviors is why the DC Lottery is involved in this campaign. Our message is simple, lottery tickets are appropriate gifts only for adults.”
Platinum Level support of NCPG’s Gift Responsibly Campaign involves encouraging age-appropriate play through public service announcements, social media, in-store signage, and retailer communications. The campaign will run throughout December. “We are very appreciative of the DC Lottery’s efforts to educate adults and retailers about the potential consequences associated with underage lottery play,” said NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte. “The evidence clearly shows that exposure to gambling as a youth increases the probability of gambling problems later in life. Regardless of what time of year it is, adults should find gift options for children other than lottery tickets.”
About the National Council on Problem Gambling NCPG is the national advocate for people and families affected by problem gambling. NCPG is neutral on legalized gambling and works with all stakeholders to promote responsible gambling. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org/chat for confidential help.
About International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University For over 20 years, the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University has been at the forefront of leading-edge research aimed at identifying and understanding the critical factors related to youth gambling issues.
Since its inception in 1982, the DC Lottery has awarded more than $3.8 billion in prizes, transferred more than $2.14 billion to the District's General Fund which supports essential services in the District, and has helped local nonprofits raise more than $134 million in support of social causes.