The Entain Foundation US, the non-profit charitable trust established by the operator, has partnered with former National Basketball Association (NBA) player Charles Oakley on a charity initiative.
The new partnership will see the Entain Foundation US sponsor the sporting icon’s ‘Oak Out Hunger’ project to include education about responsible gambling.
The Entain Foundation US will provide funding and expertise in preventing and mitigating problem gambling to the initiative, which is delivered by the Charles Oakley Foundation.
This will be offered alongside other forms of support to impoverished, underprivileged communities facing hunger, addiction and economic challenges in cities across the US.
From early 2022, the program will operate in cities including Los Angeles, New York, Buffalo, Philadelphia and New Orleans, coinciding with major sporting events.
The campaign will also visit cities and towns also home to universities including Indiana University, the University of Michigan and Michigan State, Ohio State, West Virginia and Tennessee.
“It’s all about giving back to people who are trying to get through life,” Oakley said. “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.”
Entain’s senior president for American regulatory affairs and responsible gambling, and trustee of the Entain Foundation US, Martin Lycka, added: “As sports betting takes off across many US states, we’re committed to do 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.”