If you enjoy playing the lottery, it makes sense to want to spread the joy by giving away tickets during the holidays. And if you’re a last-minute type of shopper, these colourful tickets definitely make for fun gifts.
However, a lottery corporation is warning Canadians about some serious risks when giving away tickets as presents. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is reminding parents and caregivers that “lottery tickets are a form of gambling and should never be given to children or minors.”
According to OLG, introducing youth to gambling early on “can increase future problems.”
Research by the Gambling, Gaming and Technology Use (GGTU) program shows that young people aged 10 to 24 years old have higher rates of problem gambling than adults. And it’s a very real issue: in 2019, 32 per cent of students said they participated in one or more gambling activities, according to findings by the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey.
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For those who want to learn more about youth gambling risks, there are several resources available, such as the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC).
“It’s easy to think of lottery tickets as a quick, fun stocking stuffer — but they’re designed for adults,” states OLG.
So, if you are giving away tickets as gifts, make sure the person you’re giving them to is at least 18 years old. And if you need ideas for thoughtful gifts, check out Daily Hive’s guide for gifts under $100.
“Just like the Grinch learned that the holiday season isn’t about things, we need to remember that holiday cheer doesn’t come from risky gifts,” states the OLG.
All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources.
