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Financial resources needed to keep the Problem Gambling Center afloat are beginning to run thin. The center is operating at only 70 percent of its usual budget due to state cutbacks derived from the global recession. In addition to the cutbacks, many more people with gambling addictions are seeking treatment.

Increase in Elderly Attendance

The Problem Gambling Center is the largest public, non-profit walk-in establishment in Nevada. One office on Sahara Avenue in Las Vegas is seeing a large increase in treatment for the elderly who are the most vulnerable citizens. The numbers show that slightly over 43 percent of those seeking treatment are over the age of 51. In the past, those over 50 years old only represented 30 percent of all patients.

Treatment Services

In 2009, 150 problem-gamblers finished the center’s outpatient program. Over 1,000 others were treated by the staff through group counseling, basic financial planning and family therapy. With four months remaining in 2010, the numbers are already approaching last years. Unfortunately bankruptcies and foreclosures are the seeds of gambling addiction. Also, many elderly individuals are depleting their retirement savings through gambling.

As a result of the growing number of seniors attending the Problem Gambling Center, they created a senior outreach program 3 years ago. The program provides presentations, one-on-one help and in-home therapy visits. Also, the center picks up and drives the disabled to sessions in a handicapped-accessible vehicle.

Economic Effects

The center is primarily focused on improving the lives of individuals. Many center employees believe that individuals young and old are hitting rock bottom much more quickly during these tough economic times. As a result, they are seeking immediate help due to their lack of funds.

The Problem Gambling Center’s Numbers

This year the center has a budget of only $400,000. This derives from donations by slot-machine vendors and casinos. Unfortunately a few casinos had to cut funding due to the economic climate. This is not a reflection that they do not want to help; they simply lack the money. Luckily, last week the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers sent a surprise $50,000 check to the center. This will help them get through the next few months.

The Future

Next year, the center’s two-year funding commitment from Nevada ends thus calling for an appeal to lawmakers requesting additional money. Due to budgetary problems, they may not get much or any money and must search for alternate sources.

The Problem Gambling Center provides a much needed service in the gambling Mecca of the world. Unfortunately the future of the center looks grim. Hopefully, some business entity will step in and donate to keep this necessary establishment alive.