Playing more than planned
Spending more time or money on tickets than you meant to, again and again.
18+ · Ontario only
Play responsibly
Responsible gambling
Our 50/50 raffle is a fun way to support adults with disabilities in Northern Ontario — it is not a way to make money. This page explains how to keep play in check, how to spot the warning signs, and where to find free, confidential help.
Why we run this raffle
Play for fun, not for profit. This is not a way to make money.
Every ticket helps fund residential and community programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Half of each pot goes to one winner; the rest supports our charitable work. Treat the cost of a ticket as a donation with a chance attached — never as an investment or a way to solve money worries.
- Decide your budget before you play.
- Only spend money you can comfortably afford to lose.
- Gambling should never feel like a source of income.
Know the warning signs
Signs of problem gambling
Gambling can stop being fun. If a few of these feel familiar — for you or someone you care about — it may be time to take a break and reach out for support.
Playing with money you can't afford
Using funds meant for rent, bills, food, or savings to buy tickets.
Hiding how much you play
Keeping your spending secret from family, friends, or a partner.
Borrowing money to play
Taking loans, using credit, or borrowing from others to keep playing.
Chasing losses
Playing more to try to win back money you've already lost.
Playing when upset or stressed
Turning to gambling to cope with sadness, boredom, or anxiety.
Affecting relationships or work
Gambling causing tension at home, or getting in the way of work or study.
Feeling you can't stop
Wanting to cut back but finding it hard, or feeling restless when you try.
Stay in control
Tips to keep play safe and fun
A few simple habits make it easy to enjoy the raffle while keeping gambling in its place.
- Set a budget. Decide in advance how much you'll spend, and stick to it.
- Never chase losses. Money that's gone is gone — playing more won't win it back.
- Don't play when upset. Avoid buying tickets to cope with stress or low moods.
- Play only for fun. Enjoy the chance to win and the good your ticket does.
- Take breaks. Step away regularly, and skip a draw whenever you feel like it.
- Treat it as a donation. Think of your ticket as a gift to the cause, not income.
You're not alone
Where to get free, confidential help
Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — for you or someone you care about. It's free, confidential, and available across Ontario.
Free & confidential · 24/7
1-866-531-2600
www.connexontario.ca
1-866-531-2600
www.connexontario.ca
Free information and referral for problem gambling, mental health, and substance use — any time, day or night.
Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline
1-888-230-3505
Confidential support and referrals across the province.
Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org
Prevention resources and tools to help you play safe.
In a crisis, call 911
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, or you're having thoughts of self-harm, call 911 right away.
Before you play
A quick reminder
You must be 18 years of age or older and physically located in Ontario to buy tickets. Know your limit, play within it. For full details on how the draw works, see our Rules of Play.