The organisation will provide funding and responsible gambling education for Oakley’s ‘Oak Out Hunger’ initiative.
Through this program, the ex-power forward’s charity, the Charles Oakley Foundation, gives support to impoverished, underprivileged communities facing hunger, addiction and economic challenges. It offers anti-addiction and education services, which will for the first time include responsible gambling.
“It’s all about giving back to people who are trying to get through life,” said Oakley. “I go all over. And you see people hanging out on the streets, nowhere to get a meal, some of whom use what little money they have to fund addictions.
“Our program is about helping to break that cycle. Give them a chance and a good meal. Meet some different people and have a good time.”
The campaign is set to start in early 2022, coinciding with several major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, March Madness and the college basketball tournament. It will come to a number of US cities, including LA, New York, Buffalo, Philadelphia and New Orleans, as well as several universities, including Indiana University, the University of Michigan and Michigan State, Penn State and Rutgers.
Martin Lycka, Entain’s Senior VP for American regulatory affairs and responsible gambling, and trustee of the Entain Foundation US, commented: “As sports betting takes off across many US states, we’re committed to doing all we can to ensure that people only bet what they can afford — which is especially important in more deprived communities.
“The Oak Out Hunger campaign is truly unique — and effective — in providing essential services to impoverished and underprivileged urban communities across the US. The Oakley Foundation is an ideal partner to help us reach those in most need with education on responsible gambling.”
