Campaign to Raise Awareness on Youth Gambling Risks

Provided by Prince William County Communications Office

Throughout the month of December, the Prince William Community Services Wellness and Prevention Team will raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling through social media campaigns, retailer training and educational webinars. This is part of the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign, a worldwide effort to raise awareness about the risk of childhood gambling. The efforts by Community Services underscores the importance of fostering responsible gambling behaviors and safeguarding children’s mental health.

The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling, or NCPG, and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries.

Research shows that children who engage in gambling activities are at a higher risk of developing gambling problems later in life. Many adults, unaware of these risks, unknowingly contribute by giving lottery tickets or scratch-off cards as gifts to children.

“We are raising awareness and providing education about the risks associated with underage gambling in hopes of preventing gambling from becoming problematic later in life for the youth in our community,” said Wellness and Prevention Team Supervisor Wendy Hunt. “Education can reduce the impact gambling can have on mental health and individuals turning to substance use or experiencing problematic mental health challenges associated with gambling.”

As part of the campaign, Community Services will host a free virtual webinar, Gaming, Gambling, and Problematic Internet Use, on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 9 a.m.  This one-hour session will focus on increasing awareness and resilience concerning youth gambling, youth gaming and the connection between gambling and gaming. Registration is now open to the public, and advance registration is required.

Keith Whyte, Executive Director of NCPG, praised the county’s Community Services for their proactive efforts to address the risks associated with youth gambling.

“The potential long-term risks associated with underage gambling exposure cannot be understated,” Whyte said. “We applaud Prince William Community Services for their commitment to raising awareness about the risks of youth gambling and for working to educate the community that lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available 24/7. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gamblerchat.org for free and confidential support.

For local assistance, contact the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-888-532-3500. This resource connects individuals to gambling treatment providers through the Virginia Partnership for Gaming & Health, including a Peer Specialist dedicated to serving our region.