Chicago, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – With the holiday season approaching and gift-giving in full swing, the Illinois Lottery is urging shoppers to think twice before slipping instant tickets into children’s stockings. Officials are reminding the public that lottery products should only be purchased and gifted to adults 18 and older.
“Lottery games are meant to be a form of entertainment for adults,” said Harold Mays, Director of the Illinois Lottery. “During the holidays, it’s easy to slip a scratch-off ticket into a stocking or greeting card, but it’s important to remember that these products are not appropriate gifts for children or teens. We encourage all our players to celebrate the season responsibly and with care.”
The Illinois Lottery is again partnering with the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling (ICPG) in support of the annual Gift Responsibly Campaign, a national awareness effort led by the National Council on Problem Gambling. The campaign aims to educate families about the risks of early exposure to gambling and to reinforce why lottery products should never be given to minors.
“We appreciate the Illinois Lottery’s continued partnership in sharing this important message,” said Dave Wohl, Executive Director of ICPG. “The holidays are a time of joy, and we want to ensure they remain that way. Even small gifts like lottery tickets can introduce young people to gambling behaviors too early. Together, we can help families make informed, responsible choices.”
Lottery officials emphasized that responsible play should extend throughout the year. They encourage players to understand the odds, set limits, and treat lottery games strictly as entertainment. Help is available for anyone struggling with gambling behavior through the Illinois Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).
The Illinois Lottery joins more than 150 lotteries and community organizations worldwide in promoting responsible gaming during the holiday season. More information about responsible play and holiday gifting guidelines is available on the Illinois Lottery’s website under the Responsible Gaming section.
