CHARITABLE GAMING

"Charitable Gaming" refers to lottery schemes such as bingo, raffles, break open tickets and social gaming events held by charitable and religious organizations which are permitted by a licence under the Criminal Code of Canada. Charitable organizations are regulated by licensing policies and the terms and conditions of the licence as issued by the province or municipality under the authority of an Order-in Council.

ELIGIBILITY

Charitable and religious organizations are permitted under the Criminal Code of Canada to conduct lottery schemes to raise funds pursuant to a licence being issued. Organizations must have a demonstrated charitable or religious mandate to qualify. The term "Charitable" refers to organizations, which provide programs for:

1) the relief of poverty;

2) the advancement of education;

3) the advancement of religion;

4) other charitable purposes beneficial to the community.

DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY

The following pre-requisites are mandatory to be considered eligible for a lottery licence:

· Organizations must have been in existence for at least one (1) year before being considered eligible for lottery licenses.

· The organization must have a place of business in Ontario; demonstrate that it is established to provide charitable services in Ontario and use proceeds for objects or purposes, which benefit Ontario residents.

Lottery licensing information and forms can be obtained directly from the Municipal Office or by referring to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission website link below.