Delaware Lottery Supports International Push to Curb Underage Gambling

The Delaware Lottery has joined the 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign, a global initiative led by the National Council on Problem Gambling to raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling. (Photo credit: Delaware Lottery)

The Delaware Lottery is joining a worldwide effort to reduce youth exposure to gambling, announcing this week that it will participate as a Level 2 partner in the 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign.

The annual initiative, organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, encourages adults to avoid giving lottery tickets to minors and raises awareness of the risks associated with early gambling.

Research cited by NCPG points to a strong connection between early exposure to gambling and a higher likelihood of developing gambling problems later in life. Children often receive their first lottery ticket from an adult who may not realize the potential harm.

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“Protecting young people is a responsibility we all share,” said Helene Keeley, Director of the Delaware Lottery. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to work alongside NCPG and NASPL to remind the public that lottery products are intended strictly for adults. Keeping these games out of children’s hands is one simple but important way to promote safer communities.”

Throughout December, the Lottery plans to share educational messages at retail locations, post reminders on social media, distribute public service announcements, and provide training materials to retailers and community partners as part of the campaign.

“Youth gambling is a growing risk that too often goes overlooked. The Gift Responsibly Campaign plays a vital role in helping families and communities understand the importance of keeping lottery products out of kids’ hands,” said Derek Longmeier, president of NCPG’s Board of Directors. “We’re grateful to the Delaware Lottery for joining this effort and working to expand education and awareness to protect young people from gambling-related harm.”

The Delaware Lottery has taken part in responsible gambling initiatives for years, including collaborating with the Delaware Council on Gambling Problems, offering retailer education, and placing “Play Responsibly” messages on its platforms. Officials say participation in the campaign reinforces those ongoing efforts.

“Responsible gaming is at the heart of everything we do,” Keeley said. “Through our partnerships and year-round public awareness efforts, we are committed to ensuring that our games remain a fun entertainment option for adults, and only adults.”