Alberta Cuts Funding for Problem Gambling Resource Network, Raising Concerns
Alberta’s government has cut funding for the Edmund-based non-profit organization Problem Gambling Resource Network (PGRN).
The organization provides individuals and communities in the province with education and resources to gamble responsibly through public awareness, advocacy, research, and treatment referrals.
PGRN Executive Director Ray Reshke said that the organization will likely close with the end of the funding contract. The network has had a funding agreement with the government since 1993. The recently ended contract was meant to last three years, pumping nearly $130,000 into PGRN annually, but was cut a year early.
A Pillar of the Community
PGRN is one of the few organizations in Alberta that offer help with gambling addiction through a phone line and drop-in center that doubles as a meeting place for Gamblers Anonymous.
While PGRN does not offer counselling services, it directs people to helpful resources like Alberta Health Services and Gamblers Anonymous. The network also helps locals enlist in the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis voluntary self-exclusion program, which restricts access to casinos.
PGRN’s education program is considered its most significant accomplishment, enrolling paid volunteers with a gambling addiction history to enlighten the masses with school and workplace presentations. The organization is estimated to have reached over 250,000 people through gambling education presentations.
Public Disagreement with Government Assessment
According to Reshke, funding was cut because PGRN doesn’t offer direct gambling addiction services. Four disability advocacy organizations with government contracts that ended earlier this year reported the same reason.
Andree Busenius, a volunteer with the network, disagreed with the government’s decision. He underscored the demand for responsible gambling presentations, especially in schools, now more than ever, insisting that online gambling sites are far more accessible than addiction support.
Janet Eremenko, opposition NDP mental health and addictions critic, also expressed disappointment with the government’s decision to cut funding to the gambling network. She said it was an irresponsible decision, especially since the UCP government generates over $2 billion from the gambling industry annually. Janet emphasized that the authorities have a responsibility to be proactive in preventing and treating gambling addiction with such high revenue numbers.
Emphasis on Frontline Services
The Office of Mental Health and Addictions Minister Dan Williams appointed Recovery Alberta to answer questions about the funding cuts. Recovery Alberta is one of four new public health agencies formed to replace Alberta Health Services. The agency’s spokesperson, Jessica Conlin, explained that the contract with PGRN was ended because the organization doesn’t offer direct services.
“These funds are being reallocated to focus on frontline delivery of services to directly support Albertans in their pursuit of recovery,” Conlin stated. “At any time, Albertans can call the Addiction and Mental Health Helpline to connect with trained professionals for access to services.”
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