OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – Millions of people have the Mega Millions jackpot on their Christmas wish list. The current grand prize is $825 million — one of the largest jackpots in U.S. history.
They’re selling dreams at AB’s 66 convenience store in Omaha’s Dundee Neighborhood. Everyone who buys a Mega Millions ticket gets one.
For most, playing the lottery when the prizes swell is not a big deal. Just a fleeting moment of “what if?”
“If I won all that money I would definitely go on a really long vacation, all around the world” one customer said with a laugh.
“I’d find an investment lawyer and hide,” another said.
But for some people, the dream never ends, especially when there’s a chance to win so much money and the lines between fantasy and reality become fuzzy.
“I’ve actually worked with people who are just lottery gamblers,” said Gina Fricke.
Fricke works at Peace and Power Counseling, treating people addicted to gambling. She says betting a couple of dollars when the lotto jackpots jump up is okay, but only use disposable income.
“If it’s supposed to be money for their electric bill or their rent or their groceries, that’s not disposable income,” Fricke said.
After the lotto drawing is over, there are still other things to gamble on all around us. Casinos, sports, even keno.
“Statewide numbers of people with an addiction to gambling are increasing,” Fricke said. “More people are seeking services. So id I risk some money that I can’t afford and then I win, I am more likely to risk more in order to try to win that again.”
The Nebraska Gambler’s Assistance Program offers help for Nebraskans and their families who want to stop the wheels of addiction. Gina says the goal of the program is not to put the brakes on making a bet forever.
“That can be their goal, but it can also be that they want to reduce their gambling to what they believe would be a more manageable level financially for them.”
Like betting a couple of bucks when the lotto jackpot starts closing in on $1 billion.
The NGAP is free to all Nebraskans. Anyone who needs help should call the helpline at 1-833-238-6837. The program is funded by the state and includes proceeds form teh Nebraska Lottery.
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