Central New York has no shortage of casinos, and there’s a big push this month to spot and offer help to customers who have gambling problems on slots and table games. March is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month and the theme is “Awareness + Action.” The National Council of Problem Gambling and the State Gaming Commissionare implementing steps to protect players and offer ways to receive help.
Vernon Downs Assistant General Manager Arthur Woods has a staff of 300 who are trained to approach customers with gambling issues. He emphasizes the need to play responsibly.
"When it becomes a regular, and you see them really trying to hit the machines, saying 'this is gonna save me, this is gonna save me.' No, we're an entertainment area in an entertainment district. That's our whole purpose here."
Woods says Vernon Downs gets to know its customers and has partnered with the state lottery to offer assistance for players for at least ten years. He adds it’s difficult to determine when customers are out to have sociable fun versus a serious gambling problem. But he knows it can happen to people from all different ages and backgrounds.
"Just making them aware that there are options, and letting them know if they get in over their head or have problems that they can get assistance."
The State Gaming Commission also aims to detect and prevent underage play. They launched the “Falls Into Place” campaign that will be seen and heard on TV and radio throughout the month.
You can learn more about problem gambling here. If you need immediate help, call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text 467369.
