NFL commits a further $6.4m to the National Council on Problem Gambling
New three-year funding deal agreed with aim to continue to improve problem gambling prevention services, while league adds integrity representative to all 32 franchises
The National Football League (NFL) has pledged a further $6.4m over the next three years to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to further improve problem gambling prevention services and responsible gambling initiatives.
The new deal, which sees the NFL Foundation support the NCPG, represents a slight increase in the initial three-year, $6.2m grant that was handed out in October 2021.
To date, NFL funding has supported several NCPG initiatives including modernizing and strengthening the National Problem Gambling Helpline as well as developing and implementing the Agility Grants Program.
The helpline now boasts “upgraded technology, increased staffing, and enhanced data collection efforts from the 28 contact centers,” with the US-wide licensing of the 1-800-GAMBLER number driving up wider awareness.
The Agility Grants Program has so far provided nearly $1m in grants to 26 problem gambling prevention schemes across 17 states, helping more than 40,000 people.
In addition, funds have been used to launch and support the ResponsiblePlay.org website, which has since had 750,000 visitors.
Anna Isaacson, NFL SVP of social responsibility, said: “Our partnership with NCPG underscores the vital impact of their work and our ongoing commitment to advocate for and support responsible gambling initiatives.
“We are proud to leverage our platform and resources with NCPG’s expertise to raise awareness, provide education, and help prevent problem gambling.
“We look forward to our continued partnership with NCPG and expanding the reach of their impactful programs.”
Keith Whyte, NCPG executive director, added: “We are profoundly grateful for the NFL’s renewed investment in NCPG, which will enable us to grow the essential prevention, education, and awareness initiatives that were established through their initial grant.
“This partnership has been instrumental in advancing our mission of minimizing gambling-related harm. We look forward to building on the significant progress we’ve made together over the past three years and exploring new avenues for impact.”
Alongside the announcement, the NFL has added an integrity representative to each all 32 teams, who will keep an eye out for suspicious activity during games.
Ahead of Super Bowl LVIII back in February, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell reiterated the league’s zero tolerance policy on players betting on games.