Pennsylvania State Highlights Education, Treatment Services During 'Problem Gambling Aware...( HARRISBURG Pa. Feb. 27 -- The stat...),Health

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The state departments of Health, Agriculture and Revenue -- along with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board -- will highlight National Problem Gambling Awareness Week, March 1 - 7, by reminding citizens that counseling and treatment services are available to those affected by a gambling addiction.

"For most people, gambling is a fun and harmless form of entertainment. But for some, it can be a devastating addiction," said Health Secretary Everette James. "We want to make sure people are aware of available resources and remind them this is not a battle they will have to fight alone."

The Department of Health has approved 42 problem gambling treatment providers across the state to provide counseling services to those in need.

Assistance is also available by calling the 24-hour Pennsylvania Gambling Addiction hotline at 1-877-565-2112. The call is confidential, anonymous and free.

Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director Edward Trees stressed the Lottery's commitment to responsible gaming. The Lottery is administered by the Department of Revenue.

"The Pennsylvania Lottery is committed to maximizing revenues to benefit vital programs for older Pennsylvanians through the responsible sale and marketing of its products," Trees said. "The Lottery encourages players to have fun playing its games with discretionary dollars, but reminds players to always play responsibly."

In partnership with the Pennsylvania Council on Compulsive Gambling, the Lottery also sponsors a toll-free gambling hotline, 1-800-848-1880. It is featured on the back of instant tickets, during live televised drawings and on the Lottery's Web site at www.palottery.com.

The Pennsylvania Horse and Harness Racing Commissions are committed to keeping pari-mutuel gaming a pl
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