Youth problem gambling is an increasingly significant public health concern. Although gambling is legally restricted to adults and regulations vary across states and provinces, research shows many minors continue to participate in gambling activities. Studies indicate that many young people report their first gambling experience between the ages of 9 and 11. Globally, 17.9% of youth under 18 have gambled within the past year, and an estimated 159.6 million have participated in commercial, largely age-restricted gambling during the same period. For minors, online gambling is the second most common form of gambling. Research also shows young males 25 and under are more likely than females to meet criteria for problem gambling.
The Gift Responsibly Campaign was launched in the early 2000s by the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University. Through partnerships with lotteries and community organizations, the initiative raises awareness of the risks of youth gambling and warns adults not to purchase lottery tickets for children.
In 2025, the National Council on Problem Gambling expanded outreach efforts by introducing the Too Young to Bet campaign, designed for organizations whose audiences may not be centered around lottery products. While the messaging may occasionally reference lottery tickets, the campaign reinforces a broader message: no form of gambling is safe or appropriate for children. The Too Young to Bet toolkit features updated youth gambling statistics, a new image suite, and sample social media messaging.
The Gift Responsibly / Too Young to Bet Campaign is presented by the National Council on Problem Gambling and the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University, with support from the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries. Participating organizations help educate communities about the dangers of gifting lottery tickets to minors, raise awareness about the risks of youth gambling, and promote responsible gambling practices for adults of legal age.
Planning District One Behavioral Health Services and Frontier Health Prevention Services are partnering to share campaign materials on the “Concerned About Our Community Coalition” Facebook page throughout the holiday season. Community members are encouraged to engage with and share these posts—especially as scratch-off tickets often end up in children’s stockings this time of year.
“Frontier Health Prevention Services is excited for the opportunity to educate the community on how prevalent and harmful youth problem gambling can be,” said Catey Lawson, director of Prevention Services.