Alberta puts $2.4M toward gambling addiction treatment services
The funding is drawn from social responsibility revenue tied to Alberta's regulated iGaming market, with one per cent of gross gaming revenue earmarked for addiction treatment.
Why it matters
The funding expands free treatment options for Albertans struggling with gambling-related harm to mental health, finances and relationships.
The Government of Alberta has announced a $2.4 million investment in specialized treatment and recovery services for residents dealing with gambling addiction. A portion of the funding will go to Brick House Recovery Centre, which operates locations in Edmonton and Calgary, to expand gambling treatment and recovery programs across the province.
Mental Health and Addiction Minister Rick Wilson said gambling can severely harm mental health, relationships and financial stability, and that the government wants to ensure Albertans can access recovery-focused, free supports. Brick House Recovery Centre co-founder Dr. Lovneet Hayer said the organization aims to provide high-quality, recovery-oriented care for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.
Brick House is the first organization selected following an open competition held earlier this year to find qualified providers of coordinated outpatient and online gambling treatment services. The province says additional recipients will be chosen later this fall.
The investment is funded through social responsibility revenue connected to Alberta's regulated iGaming market, which dedicates one per cent of gross gaming revenue to addiction treatment. Albertans seeking help can contact 211 Alberta by phone, text or online chat for 24-7 assistance, including referrals to Brick House and other mental health and addiction supports.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.