PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Jacqueline Posley, Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Phone Number: 802-828-4932
E-Mail: Jacqueline.posley@vermont.gov
DLL Participates in National Gift Responsibly Lottery Campaign
BERLIN, VT. – December 13, 2022 – The Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery today announced its commitment as a participant of the 2022 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining more than 100 lotteries and community organizations across the country and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of buying lottery tickets for children. 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.
Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or even exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, given by an adult who is likely unaware of the associated risks.
“This campaign is important to the Department because we want to ensure that Vermont’s responsible gaming environment includes awareness of our youth.” said Andrew Collier. “As a father, I continue to educate myself to ensure that I’m also doing my part.”
DLL signed on to the campaign as a Level 1 participant. During November and December, the Department is working to raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling by spreading awareness through Facebook, Instagram, both Lottery websites, news and media contact, and their monthly player newsletter.
“Youth problem gambling has emerged as a significant and growing public health issue. We applaud The Department of Liquor and Lottery’s commitment to raising awareness about risks of youth gambling through the Gift Responsibly Campaign,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director. “Our message is a simple one: lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.”
About the Vermont Lottery and the Department of Liquor and Lottery
Vermont Lottery is a division within the Department of Liquor and Lottery that provides a regulatory framework of licensing, compliance, enforcement, and education for the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and gaming entertainment, ensuring public safety, and contributing 100% of profits to Vermont communities through the General and Education funds.
About the National Council on Problem Gambling
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington DC, NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.
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.
###
