Alberta Invests CA$2.4M in Gambling Treatment as New iGaming Market Takes Shape

The Alberta government announced a CA$2.4 million ($1.7 million) investment in Brick House Recovery Centre to expand gambling treatment and recovery services for Albertans experiencing gambling-related harm.

Under Alberta’s new iGaming regulatory regime, 1% of gross gaming revenue will fund social responsibility programs, including education, research, and treatment.

Treatment Available Across Alberta

“Gambling can ruin people’s lives and livelihoods,” said Dally Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction. “If you don’t gamble today, you absolutely should not start tomorrow. For Albertans who choose to gamble and are struggling, we have your back, and we’re making sure real help is there when you need it.”

Brick House said in a statement that the money will go towards a publicly funded, flexible, person-centered outpatient program – four weeks of treatment followed by up to eight weeks of individualized aftercare.

The program will provide treatment in Edmonton and Calgary, with virtual services available province-wide.

Outpatient Program

“Gambling can have devastating consequences for individuals and families, harming mental health, eroding relationships and losing financial security,” said Rick Wilson, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction. 

“We are ensuring Albertans have access to recovery-focused supports that help people restore stability, build resilience and achieve long-term recovery.”

The Alberta government conducted an open competition earlier this year for organizations that provide coordinated outpatient and online gambling treatment and recovery services to be eligible for funding.

Additional Funding for Programs This Fall

Brick House Recovery Centre is the first organization to receive funding through this competition. Additional recipients will be selected late this fall.

Earlier this summer, Nally said: “Albertans were already gambling. What we’re putting in place is a regulated market that will put player safety and player responsibility first. It’s also going to ensure that not only do all Albertans who are struggling with problematic gambling behaviours have access to treatment, but the operator will pay for it. That’s the right thing to do.”

Alberta’s iGaming market went live on July 13. Currently, 33 licensed sites accept wagers, according to the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC).