The Kansas Lottery today announced its commitment as a level 1 participant of the 2022 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining 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.
“The Kansas Lottery is proud to take part once again in the Gift Responsibly campaign,” said Stephen Durrell, Executive Director of the Kansas Lottery. “Responsible gaming is incredibly important, and we always remind our players that while lottery tickets can make great gifts, they are for your 18 and older friends and family only.”
The Kansas Lottery has signed on to the campaign as a level 1 participant. During November and December, the Kansas Lottery will work to raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling by featuring the campaign on social media, live streams, and raising awareness with players and retailers.
“Youth problem gambling has emerged as a significant and growing public health issue. We applaud the Kansas 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 Kansas Lottery
In November of 1986, 64 percent of Kansas voters approved a constitutional amendment authorizing the creation of a state lottery. The Kansas Legislature passed the "Kansas Lottery Act" in 1987, and the Kansas Lottery was established. The mission of the Kansas Lottery is to produce the maximum amount of revenue possible for the State of Kansas while ensuring the integrity of all games.
The Kansas Lottery sells $1, $2, $3, $5, $10, $20 and $30 scratch tickets and $1 and $2 instant pull tab games. In addition, Kansas Lottery players enjoy Powerball, Mega Millions, Lotto America, Lucky for Life, Super Kansas Cash, Pick 3, 2by2, Keno and Racetrax draw games. Kansas Lottery products are sold at approximately 1,750 retail locations.
The Kansas Lottery is headed by an Executive Director who is appointed by the governor.
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 Behaviours 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.