NOVEMBER 2017: Volume 81

THE FCCG THANKS ALL MILITARY VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES FOR THEIR SERVICE!

During the month of November the United States pays homage to all American veterans. In its continued effort to provide assistance to anyone adversely impacted by problem gamblers, the FCCG has developed specialized materials for the military population. It’s not unusual for active or retired members of the military to take risks. The very nature of defending one’s country requires soldiers to risk losing their lives in order to protect the safety of those at home. Therefore, when it comes to gambling other items of value, nothing ever seems quite as costly, which makes troops twice as likely to develop a gambling problem. Based on data collected during the 2016-2017 fiscal year, 18% of callers to 1-888-Admit-It reported that the gambler had a military background.

Did you know that since the 1930s slot machines have been present on military bases all over the world? In fact there are currently at least 5,000 slot machines located on nearly 100 overseas bases. Additionally bingo is another popular form of gambling entertainment on many military bases. It is estimated that these two types of on-base gambling generates approximately $195 million in revenue for the Department of Defense each year. When you consider that the average U.S. solider earns $39,600, each one of these machines is paying for a soldiers’ salary for the entire year!

We encourage anyone affected by problem gambling contact us for support and resources at 1-888-ADMIT-IT (236-4848).