Illustrations by Joe Fleming
Did you know…
Gambling occurs at a very high rate among people experiencing poverty and homelessness. In fact, 35% of men and 28% of women using shelter services in Toronto and Hamilton reported serious gambling concerns.
This is nine times higher than the general population.
Problem Gambling Among Youth: Joey’s Story
The relationship between problem gambling and poverty can be complicated by experiences of homelessness, trauma, violence, mental illness and substance use. These experiences are also impacted by intersections of class, race, culture, sex and gender identity.
“I WISH I KNEW THAT CASINO GAMES WERE RIGGED AGAINST ME.”
Watch joey’s story with problem gambling to learn more
About the Lab
The Justice and Equity Lab embraces innovation to address poverty, homelessness, and social inequities in health among people who face daily marginalization and discrimination.
Prominent Research
The lab currently oversees multiple ongoing projects related to problem gambling, poverty, and homelessness. Click here for more information on current and completed projects.
SPRinG App
Click here to learn more about this evidence-based, low-barrier, harm-reduction self-help tool.
Keep up-to-date with our lab:
A note from the illustrator, Joe Fleming: It occurred to me how someone with a serious addiction must feel somewhat “sentenced,” bearing the weight of such a burden. I then compared this “weight” with the physical strain placed upon Sisyphus and thought it was a great metaphor. The massive boulder was replaced with a gambling chip, and the person inside the chip walking with ease up a set of stairs is to suggest that with hard work and help, this overbearing situation will get better/easier.
Get In Touch
Our lab is located at the Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital.
MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions
St. Michael’s Hospital
30 Bond Street
Toronto, Ontario
M5B 1W8, Canada
From the Justice & Equity Lab 