Alberta is looking for new providers to expand gambling-addiction support as the province settles into its regulated online gaming market. The request for expressions of interest, published on Monday, seeks services that would add to what Recovery Alberta and existing hotlines already provide, including a 21-day bed-based treatment program.
CBC reported that the ministry said the programs will be paid for through revenue the government expects to bring in from Alberta’s regulated iGaming system. As covered in July, Alberta’s regulated iGaming market went live last month, opening the province to private sportsbooks and online casinos.
The call says online gambling has created new challenges in preventing problem gambling and responding to it. It says gambling-related harms can affect mental health, physical health, relationships, financial stability, employment, housing and overall wellbeing.
The ministry said the aim is to provide enhanced supports for individuals and families struggling with problem gambling. It also said, “Nobody should have to struggle with addiction alone, including gambling-related addiction.”
The funding structure ties the new services to the market itself. Alberta takes a 20 per cent cut of revenues from each private operator, and 1 per cent is set aside for social responsibility initiatives such as addiction services or educational campaigns.
The call comes as almost two-dozen private sportsbooks and casinos were ready to take bets on launch day, with five more coming online in the weeks since. Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally has said the regulated system is meant to keep Albertans safe from black market operators, though he conceded the province could see an uptick in gambling addiction.
Organizations have until Sept. 10 to apply. The government said it remains to be seen how many funding agreements will be approved, and for now it is directing people looking for help to 211 Alberta.
