Gift Responsibly Campaign Replaces Holiday Lottery Campaign to Combat Underage Gambling
The Gift Responsibly Campaign (GRC), formerly known as the Holiday Lottery Campaign, is a joint initiative by the National Council on Problem Gambling and McGill University's International Center for Youth Gambling Problems & High Risk Behaviors. This expanded campaign aims to prevent underage lottery play throughout the year, not just during the holiday season.
Research shows that early exposure to gambling, particularly lottery tickets, increases the risk of developing gambling problems later in life. The campaign specifically discourages adults from giving lottery tickets to children as gifts for any occasion, including holidays, birthdays, and graduations.
The rebranded initiative offers three new creative design options and digital assets for social media sharing. It maintains the existing three-tier engagement system for participating organizations during the holiday season while allowing year-round message promotion.
Key achievements include:
- 100% participation from Canadian and U.S. lotteries for three consecutive years
- Growing international lottery participation
- Endorsement from the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL)
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem:
- Call or text: 1-800-522-4700
- Visit: www.ncpgambling.org/chat
- Available 24/7, 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 provide consultation to government agencies worldwide for responsible gambling initiatives.
The campaign's rebranding reinforces lottery corporation age restrictions while expanding its reach to address gift-giving occasions throughout the year, making it more effective in preventing underage gambling exposure.