Information Bulletin

Lottery tickets are a joy to give, just not to kids

St. Albert… If you’re thinking of stuffing a child’s stocking with lottery tickets this Christmas, Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC) wants to remind you that lottery products, such as scratch tickets, are not an appropriate gift for those under 18, including children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  

When lottery tickets were first introduced to Alberta in 1975, government established a policy that excluded minors from purchasing or cashing in lottery tickets. Research shows that the earlier an individual begins to gamble, the more likely he or she is to experience problems with gambling later in life.

“AGLC’s drive to ensure lottery products stay out of the hands of children is aimed at gift givers, lottery retailers and their staff. The holiday season Minors’ Awareness campaign promotes responsible gift giving, keeping lottery products away from children under the age of 18. Throughout campaigns like this, AGLC ensures both industry and the public know they are key partners in helping to prevent underage gambling.”

Alain Maisonneuve, President & CEO, AGLC  

GameSense is AGLC’s responsible gambling program that provides tools and resources for patrons and industry staff, such as: 

  • Demonstrating how the games work;
  • Giving Albertans the odds of the games; and
  • Support for Albertans who may wish to seek additional help or resources.

GameSenseAB.ca has a number of interactive features, including translation in five different languages, helping visitors familiarize themselves with facts and knowledge of casino games.

GameSense Advisors are on location at all 28 Alberta casinos, within GameSense Info Centres. If you or someone you know may require additional gambling support, contact the Alberta Health Services Addiction Line at 1-866-332-2322.

If you gamble, use your #GameSense.

Related information

GameSense
Self-Exclusion Program

Media inquiries

Heather Holmen
Heather.Holmen@aglc.ca
780-447-7581
AGLC