VICCC and VIDOH sign agreement to tackle problem gambling in the US Virgin Islands
The signing ceremony signifies a collaborative effort to provide support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Key Points:
– VICCC and VIDOH signed an MOU to combat gambling addiction in the U.S. Virgin Islands
– The initiative will see seven locally trained and certified counsellors providing relevant support
The V.I. Casino Control Commission (VICCC) and the V.I. Department of Health (VIDOH) have formalised a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to address problem gambling across the territory.
The signing ceremony, held at the VICCC’s office in Orange Grove, St. Croix, signifies a collaborative effort to provide targeted support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Under the agreement, the VICCC will fund the training and certification of seven counsellors – three each on St. Croix and St. Thomas, and one on St. John. These certified professionals will then offer counselling services to residents.
The training includes essential skills in risk factor assessment, suicide prevention and treatment strategies. The counsellors have also received supervision by board-approved clinical consultants, leading to international certification recognised by the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board.
Good to know: The program’s funding stems from a 12% tax on casino licensees’ gross earnings
Chair and CEO of the VICCC, Marvin L. Pickering, highlighted that the initiative is mandated by Title 32 V.I. Code Section 517, which allocates casino revenue to programs aimed at preventing and treating gambling addiction.
Commenting on the importance of the initiative, VIDOH Commissioner Justa Encarnacion stated: “In a close-knit community like ours, many of us know someone who has struggled with problem gambling or with gambling addiction or has seen its effect with family and friends. That’s why we are proud to enter this memorandum of understanding.”
The program will take effect 30 days after the signing, marking the start of what Pickering described as a “transformative journey” that hopes to combat gambling-related challenges in the Virgin Islands.
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