Ontario’s 24-hour problem gambling helpline is operated by a non profit agency and recently mentioned that a lack of funding means it is drowning under a wave of new, more intricate calls for help brought on by a more open betting market. By 2025-26, the figure jumped to 155,391 interactions and calls lasted almost 12 minutes on average. The rise in calls appears to have coincided with the liberalization of gambling in Ontario. ConnexOntario received a four per cent bump in the 2025-26 year, following a five per cent rise in 2023-24. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming Stan Cho’s office did not reply but he has previously acknowledged there is an acute problem with gambling addiction in the province.