FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
St. Louis Area Casinos Donate to 1.888.BETSOFF
To Promote AGA Responsible Gaming Education Week, Aug. 5th– 9 th
ST.LOUIS, August 5, 2013— Problem gambling is now classified as a behavioral addiction, according to
the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Gaming was previously labeled an impulse control disorder
by APA in 1980. “This is a significant change,” states Barbara Abbett, Interim Executive Director and Vice
Chair of Provident, Inc., the service provider for the BETSOFF gambling hotline. “This reinforces the
need for mental health agencies to look more closely at identifying and assisting those with problem
gambling habits. Our BETSOFF hotline is at the front line of the recovery process. “
Hollywood Casino, along with Lumiere Place, River City Casino and Ameristar St. Charles, are donating to
Provident’s gambling hotline (1.888.BETSOFF) to promote responsible gaming during American Gaming
Association’s Responsible Gaming Week, August 5th – August 9th. The charitable donation will be
formally presented to Abbett on Friday afternoon, August 9th by Hollywood Casino as part of the
educational festivities of the week.
“We are very appreciative of Hollywood Casinos’ initiatives to educate the community about responsible
gaming and their support of our BETSOFF hotline to assist those who are grappling with a gambling
addiction, “expressed Abbett.
Numerous events are scheduled throughout the week to facilitate responsible gaming awareness among
both patrons and employees.
Serving the St. Louis Area since 1860, Provident is an accredited, nonprofit, United Way-funded agency
that helps individuals and families to a brighter future through counseling, crisis intervention, and
community support services.
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For more Information, contact:
Janet Frain, Marketing Manager
Direct: 314-802-2629; Email: jfrain@providentstl.org
Website: www.providentstl.org