Little Rock, Arkansas – As the holiday season approaches, the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery (ASL) is reminding shoppers to consider the appropriateness of their gifts, particularly when it comes to lottery tickets. The organization is urging residents to exercise caution and ensure that lottery tickets are not given to anyone under the age of 18.
This year, ASL has partnered with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to launch a Gift Responsibly campaign aimed at raising awareness about youth gambling and its potential harms. The campaign is designed to educate the public on how gambling can affect children and to promote safer, more mindful gifting practices during the holiday shopping season.
“Lottery tickets can be fun presents or stocking stuffers, but we want to remind everyone that they are never appropriate gifts for anyone under 18,” said Sharon Strong, executive director of the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery. “Please be mindful as you’re shopping for your loved ones.”
In addition to reminding shoppers about age-appropriate gifts, ASL is also warning players to remain vigilant against lottery scams. Fraudulent calls, texts, and emails often claim that a recipient has won a lottery prize and ask for personal information. Strong stressed that the ASL Claim Center does not contact winners directly in this manner.
“If you ever receive a call, text or email asking you to provide personal information to see if you won a lottery prize, do not respond,” Strong warned. “It is a scam.”
Players who legitimately win a prize only need to submit the information required by law via a claim form, either in person or by mail, to the ASL Claim Center. For individuals who encounter suspicious activity or believe they are the target of a lottery scam, they are encouraged to report the incident to the Arkansas Lottery Security Hotline at 1-888-606-6292.
The Gift Responsibly campaign comes at a time when holiday shopping and gift-giving are in full swing, and many families are considering stocking stuffers and small presents for friends and relatives. ASL emphasizes that while lottery tickets may seem like a simple and entertaining gift, they carry a responsibility. Ensuring that recipients are of legal age and that gifts are given thoughtfully is part of promoting safe gaming practices across the state.
Through this initiative, the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery and the NCPG aim to balance the festive spirit of giving with public safety, highlighting that a responsible approach to gifting can prevent potential harm and safeguard children from the risks associated with early exposure to gambling.
For more information about responsible gift-giving and youth gambling prevention, residents are encouraged to visit the NCPG’s website and review ASL resources to help ensure a safe and happy holiday season for all.
