Group Launches Annual Effort To Help Problem Gamblers

The Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling is launching its annual effort to deal with people for whom gambling is an obsession … not entertainment. The Alliance is sponsoring several events throughout the state – events designed to promote responsible gambling and raise awareness about problem gambling. Alliance Chairman Mike Ryan says it’s not necessarily the money wagered that makes someone a problem gambler, it’s the level to which one is obsessed. Ryan says events are being held in Kansas City, St. Louis, and other casino locations throughout the state to help identify problem gamblers and to train those whose task it is to reach out to those gamblers. Anyone who might be a problem gambler can get some help by calling 888-BETS-OFF. That number is also good for families and friends of problem gamblers.