The Maryland Council on Problem Gambling was recently awarded a national grant to continue its mission of combatting irresponsible gambling practices.
The grant was from the National Council on Problem Gambling, which is based in Washington, D.C. The council helps fund problem gambling initiatives across the country.
The grant is awarded to recipients that have shown excellent commitment to addressing problem gambling. Five organizations received the grant, and each one resides in a different state.
The grant for Maryland is unique. It is dedicated to those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Maryland given grant because of past successes
As the sports betting and casino industry continue to grow and reach more residents, matching that growth with more Maryland responsible gambling resources is paramount. That is why the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) awarded a total of $176,000 to five organizations across the country working to limit the negative results of expanded gaming.
These grants were awarded through the Agility Grants program. It is funded by a multi-year, multimillion dollar commitment from the NFL Foundation. FanDuel also provides funds to the program.
The Maryland Council on Problem Gambling (MCPG) plans to use the funds to launch a new program. The Culturally Infused Problem Gambling Prevention for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Consumers program has a long title, but its goal is simple: To create public awareness campaigns aimed at the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.
Maryland was chosen to receive the grant because of its commitment to fight problem gambling, said NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte.
“Through Agility Grant funding, we aim to foster dynamic and responsive problem gambling prevention programs, helping to ensure that communities across the country are equipped to address this critical need with flexibility and innovation. Each recipient receiving support this round displayed exemplary commitment to cultural competence, tailoring their approaches with sensitivity to the diverse needs of the populations they serve.”
Maryland could receive additional grant money
Here are all five organizations that received this round of NCPG grants:
- Maryland Council on Problem Gambling
- The Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling Prevention
- The Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado
- AdCare Educational Institute of Maine Inc.
- The LCADA Way (Ohio)
There could be more grants coming to Maryland next year.
The NCPG awards Agility Grants twice a year. Applications for the next round of funding must be submitted by Feb. 28, 2024. The NCPG announces grant winners in early April.
Other MD responsible gambling resources
There are several resources in Maryland available for problem gambling.
The Maryland Lottery’s Responsible Play Initiative was created for lottery players who need responsible gaming resources, but it can be used by any gambler. That is also where the Voluntary Exclusion Program resides. It allows gamblers to exclude themselves from gambling.
The MCPG also provides many different resources and support on its website, including a self-assessment quiz, warning signs to be aware of and safety tips. It also has a toll-free helpline available 24 hours a day at 1-800-GAMBLER.
