Do you find it hard finding holiday gifts for tweens and teens? Finding the perfect gift for tweens and teens can often feel like a daunting task. As children grow older, their interests become more specific, and what was once a favorite toy or game may no longer hold their attention. Their taste in fashion changes often. The challenge lies in discovering gifts that not only align with their evolving tastes but also provide value and enjoyment.
Some might resort to giving tweens and teens monetary gifts in forms of cash, gift cards or even lottery scratch tickets. However, did you know that gambling-related gifts of any sort, including lottery scratch tickets, are inappropriate presents or stocking stuffers for children under 18 years of age?
Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery scratch tickets. Often, these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks.
This is an issue that the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VCPG) is trying to address.
The VCPG has recently announced its commitment to participate in the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise
awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).
The Gift Responsibly Campaign runs during the holiday months of November and December. During that time, the VCPG and other participants will work to promote awareness about the risks of underage lottery use through educational social media messages, press releases and public service announcements.
Lottery tickets should never be gifted to children. It's not just inappropriate, it's illegal. Gift responsibly!
VCPG’s toll-free confidential helpline, 1-888-532-3500, provides 24/7/365 support and resources for anyone having questions about a gambling problem for themselves, a friend or a loved one. The helpline is easily accessible by call, text or even by online chat at vcpg.net. All callers who allow follow-up calls receive regular contacts via phone, text and email after 48 hours, one week, one month and six months.
Read VCPG's and The Gift Responsibly Campaign's Press Release
