MADISON– This holiday season, the Wisconsin Lottery is working with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University to build awareness that lottery products are not an appropriate gift for minors. 

Wisconsin has joined more than 140 lotteries and non-lottery organizations in the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign to raise awareness about the risks of buying lottery tickets for children. 

During December, participating organizations will educate communities about the problems associated with youth gambling and support responsible gambling practices. 

The Wisconsin Lottery will use media relations, social media, digital in-store messaging, and retailer communications to underscore the message that Lottery tickets aren’t child’s play. 

“We are proud to join the lottery community to support the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign. Lottery tickets are not a gift for minors,” said Wisconsin Lottery Director Cindy Polzin. 

The Wisconsin Lottery has a long-standing commitment to responsible gaming and has partnered with the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling (WCPG) on problem gambling education for more than 15 years and currently has a Responsible Gaming Level 2 Certification with the World Lottery Association. 

“The December Gift Responsibly Campaign is an important way to encourage responsible gambling,” said Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Rose Blozinski. 

“Underage gambling is a serious problem and we applaud the Wisconsin Lottery’s continued efforts to discourage youth involvement in any form of gambling.” 

Individuals struggling with a gambling problem can reach out for confidential help by calling the Problem Gambling Helpline at 800-GAMBLE-5 (800-426-2535) or TEXT 850-888-HOPE (850-888-4673). Information is also available at wi-problemgamblers.org.