Rhode Island Lottery Joins 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign to Raise Awareness of Youth Gambling Risks

Cranston, R.I. (December 5, 2025) – The Rhode Island Lottery today announced its commitment to, and participation in, the 2025 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world helping 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 Rhode Island Lottery works year-round to promote responsible gambling. During the holidays, we place extra emphasis on gifting responsibly, ensuring that lottery products are not given to children."

Research shows that early exposure to gambling during childhood is strongly linked to the development of gambling problems later in life. Often, children are first exposed to gambling through lottery products—frequently given by adults who may not be aware of the associated risks.

"The Rhode Island Lottery works year-round to promote responsible gambling," said Mark Furcolo, Rhode Island Lottery Director. "During the holidays, we place extra emphasis on gifting responsibly, ensuring that lottery products are not given to children."

“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 Rhode Island Lottery for joining this effort and working to expand education and awareness to protect young people from gambling-related harm.”

About Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling

The Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling (RICPG), 401-354-2877, a non-profit organization dedicated to the advocacy of prevention, and education for individuals, families, and communities with gambling problems.

About Problem Gambling Services Treatment Program

The Problem Gambling Services Treatment Program (PGS), 401-499-2472, confidentially provides Rhode Islanders with individual, group, peer, and supportive counseling services.  Services are available to individuals and their families with gambling problems regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay.

About the National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington DC, NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-877-9GAMBLE.