Zepf Center is proud to announce that its Gambling Treatment and Prevention Program has been selected to receive funding through the Ohio Problem Gambling Excellence and Innovation Program Initiative, a grant made possible by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health. This initiative is designed to be a statewide model for delivering robust, evidence-based support for people impacted by problem gambling, from early prevention to treatment and ongoing recovery.
This grant is vital for Ohioans, as more than 250,000 residents are projected to meet the criteria for gambling disorder. As defined by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), a gambling disorder is any gambling behavior that is damaging to a person or their family, often disrupting their daily life and career. Along with the individual struggling with their gambling, families, loved ones, and entire communities can be affected by gambling-related harm, financial struggles, damaged relationships, and mental health concerns.
As the only local provider for gambling treatment and prevention, Zepf Center chose to apply for this grant because it connects seamlessly with the agency’s mission to provide accessible, compassionate, and person-centered behavioral healthcare services. Clients who engage in gambling treatment services also have access to Zepf’s full continuum of trauma-informed mental and physical health services.
“With more than an estimated quarter million Ohioans meeting criteria for diagnosable gambling disorder, this grant aims to protect and inform our communities,” said Zepf Center Manager of Gambling Treatment & Prevention Programs Megan Poliquin, LPCC-S, LICDC-GAMB, OCPSA. “By providing forward-thinking programming, our team can continue to expand gambling education and prevention, alongside trusted treatment and recovery supports.”
Thanks to the funds from this grant, Zepf Center’s Gambling Treatment Program will be able to continue delivering high-quality, evidence-based gambling treatment to individuals across Ohio who are experiencing gambling-related harm. They will also be able to expand outreach to high-risk populations through tailored social media campaigns, community partnerships, educational presentations, and access to resources.
The Zepf team is also excited for the opportunity to build regional leadership and collaboration through the Northwest Ohio Problem Gambling Coalition (NWOPGC), helping professionals and local partners respond early and effectively to problem gambling risks and trends in their communities. This support will help concerned community members reach more people and prevent more harm from gambling-related issues.
Along with the launch of this grant, Zepf Center will also be participating in two nationally recognized outreach campaigns to promote responsible gifting during the holidays and raise awareness about the risks of youth gaming and gambling.
The Too Young to Bet campaign focuses on protecting youth by raising awareness about how early exposure to gambling can increase risks later in life. Running simultaneously, the Gift Responsibly campaign encourages parents, caregivers, and community members to avoid giving lottery tickets or gambling products to children or teens this holiday season. Youth can be especially vulnerable when introduced to gambling at a young age, and prevention starts with thoughtful choices. Together, these campaigns remind us that responsible gambling and safe gifting help keep young people healthy and supported.
“As gambling continues to gain popularity, the number of individuals and families impacted by gambling-related harm continues to rise,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “Local, trusted treatment options are critical to ensuring that people can access support early, without stigma or barriers. At Zepf Center, we are committed to delivering innovative, compassionate care so that no one has to face problem gambling alone.”
This grant marks an exciting step forward in the agency’s efforts to inform and empower the communities it serves. With expanded outreach, enhanced prevention and education, and renewed partnerships, Zepf Center is building a strong response to gambling-related harm across Northwest Ohio.
For more information about Zepf Center’s Gambling Treatment Program and related resources, visit https://www.zepfcenter.org/gambling-treatment-program/