Economic Justice

The United Church has a long history of concern about gambling, gaming, and lotteries. We have consistently spoken out against recent gambling expansion, and urge members to avoid using funds generated by these activities. We believe that gambling, including lotteries,

• exploits the vulnerable (problem gamblers and those affected by their behaviour)
• feeds addictive behaviours
• reinforces a vision of a society made of "winners" and "losers"
• increases economic inequality.

We also believe that charities that are part of the social safety net should not be supported by this unjust activity, but instead be adequately supported by all taxpayers.

Information and Action

• The Gambling Economy
  This United Church policy analyzes gambling as an issue of social responsibility. The policy recommends a halt to the expansion of gambling activities and a ban on Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs).
• Gambling and the Use of Gambling Money in Local United Church Fundraising [PDF: 2 pp/31 KB]
  This brief article answers several questions congregations have about raising funds through small-scale gambling events and provincial lottery-generated funding.

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Conference Connections

United Church communities work on the issue of gambling, gaming, and lotteries through a variety of initiatives at the local and regional level.

• Newfoundland and Labrador Conference
  Congregations are working with the provincial government to create a centre to address addiction-related problems including gambling, drug abuse, violence against women, and alcoholism.

For more information on initiatives in your local area, please contact your local Conference office.

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Background, Resources, and Links

• Deal or No Deal [PDF: 3 pp/256 KB]
  A workshop to help youth groups understand the consequences of addiction to gambling, originally published in the November 2009 Mandate.

For more information, contact:

• Partners in Mission
  Tel: 416-231-7680
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781
  E-mail: Partners in Mission