The Pennsylvania General Assembly has approved a grant to launch Almond Digital Health across the state. This is said to be the first digital-first gambling support program in the U.S. that is backed by legislation.
The platform is available statewide and offers anonymous, multilingual educational resources, self-help tools, and connections to treatment services. This move shows how Pennsylvania’s gambling market has shifted towards online play, where support services need to be as easy to reach as the gaming apps themselves.
Pennsylvania is one of the largest regulated gambling markets in North America, with billions in yearly wagering across casinos, sports betting, online casinos, and lotteries. Online gambling participation and revenue have grown quickly in recent years, setting records in 2024 and 2025.
What the Almond Digital Health Platform Offers
The program modernizes support efforts, with the goal of helping people before their gambling habits become harmful.
The grant funds a digital platform called Almond Digital Health, providing users with anonymous, on-demand, multilingual access to:
- Educational materials about responsible gambling and ways to prevent problem gambling
- Self-help tools
- Guidance on self-exclusion options
- Connections to treatment services and care when needed
The platform integrates with real-world gambling settings, like mobile apps, casinos, sports betting sites, and through partnerships with Pennsylvania universities. It aims to provide early help for those experiencing gambling-related problems, working alongside existing services like the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline and in-person treatment programs.
The rollout is expected to start soon, beginning with sports betting services and partnerships with universities. This will create a “consistent front door” for support, no matter how or where someone gambles.
Why Pennsylvania is Doing This Now
The growth of online gambling in Pennsylvania has led to more demand for modern, accessible support resources—especially for people who might hesitate to call a helpline or seek traditional help.
Lawmakers describe the funding as a necessary, forward-thinking response to an industry that has changed rapidly with digital technology.
Key Quotes from Supporters:
State Rep. Joe McAndrew (D-Allegheny): “This grant will help us reach people where they are and ensure that anyone struggling with problem gambling gets the tools and support they need… This initiative modernizes how Pennsylvanians can get help even when access is limited.”
State Rep. Jim Prokopiak (D-Bucks): “This funding offers a practical approach and will quickly help those struggling with addiction or at risk. Gaming has drastically changed in twenty years, and now we’re addressing this issue with a fresh solution.”
Kath Middleton, Chief Product Officer of Almond Digital Health: “This is about scale and access… Pennsylvania is creating an approach that works both inside and outside traditional care settings.”
The exact amount of the grant was not shared publicly.
The Goal of the Program
The program is seen as a way to improve Pennsylvania’s responsible gambling infrastructure, not as a reaction to any specific crisis. Overall, this is a focused, tech-centered move by Pennsylvania lawmakers to make gambling support more immediate, private, and integrated into the places where people actually gamble. No other U.S. state has funded such a program at the legislative level yet.
The big question now is whether this could become a model for other states with large online betting markets. If successful, Pennsylvania could be a test case for using digital health tools to prevent gambling harm.
Action Network Responsible Gambling Resources
The Action Network offers comprehensive responsible gambling resources designed to empower users to gamble smartly and safely.
With tools to help you set personal limits, manage your bankroll effectively, and stay in control, these resources provide essential support for maintaining responsible gambling habits. Additionally, educational materials are available to deepen your understanding of responsible gambling practices, ensuring you're well-informed at every step.
Whether you're new to gambling or an experienced player looking to enhance your strategies, Action Network's resources are a reliable guide for promoting balance and well-being in your gambling activities.
