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Alberta is moving to build a new layer of gambling-addiction support just weeks after opening its regulated online gaming market, asking organizations to apply for funding that will come from the same iGaming system now taking bets across the province.
The province is seeking applications for services beyond existing Recovery Alberta programs, including a 21-day bed-based treatment program and hotlines. The call comes as Alberta’s new regulated market expands, with almost two dozen private sportsbooks and casinos ready to take bets at launch and five more coming online since.
New supports after iGaming launch
The Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction says the funding call is aimed at organizations that can provide enhanced supports to individuals and families struggling with problem gambling.
“Nobody should have to struggle with addiction alone, including gambling-related addiction,” the ministry said in a statement.
Organizations have until Sept. 10 to apply. The province has not yet determined how many applications will be approved.
The government’s application call says the growth of online gambling has created new challenges in preventing and responding to problem gambling. It also puts the issue in broader human terms.
“Gambling-related harms can affect mental health, physical health, relationships, financial stability, employment, housing and overall wellbeing,” the call says.
Revenue to fund addiction programs
The new services will be funded through revenue from Alberta’s regulated iGaming system.
Under that system, the province receives a 20 per cent cut of revenues from each private operator. One per cent is set aside for social responsibility initiatives, including addiction services and educational campaigns.
That structure places the province in a difficult policy balance: using gambling revenue to pay for supports, while also expanding access to regulated online betting and casino platforms.
Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally has said the regulated system is meant to protect Albertans from black-market operators. He has also acknowledged that gambling addiction could increase.
Beyond existing Recovery Alberta help
The province says the new programs are meant to add to what is already available through Recovery Alberta, not replace it.
Existing supports include a 21-day bed-based treatment program and hotlines. The application call is seeking organizations that can provide additional services and supports for people and families dealing with problem gambling.
The timing is central to the government’s pitch. Alberta’s regulated online gaming market launched last month, and the province is now trying to build out social supports alongside that new system.
A market still taking shape
Alberta’s regulated iGaming market began with almost two dozen private sportsbooks and casinos ready to take bets. Five more have come online since.
The province has framed regulation as a way to move gamblers away from black-market operators and into a system with provincial oversight. At the same time, the government’s own call for applications recognizes that online gambling’s growth has created new challenges.
For organizations considering an application, the Sept. 10 deadline sets the next marker. For Albertans seeking help now, the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction says they can contact 211 Alberta.
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