We raised awareness of the risks and harms gambling can cause in local communities − not only for individuals, but for communities as a whole.
An Important Update Regarding GRINS
To our valued community,
After much deliberation, the Board of Directors has decided to lay down Gambling Risk Informed Nova Scotia as of October 27, 2025.
For 15 years we have been passionate about raising awareness of the risks and harms gambling can cause − not only for individuals, but for communities as a whole. And though that passion continues, with only a small volunteer board and no core funding, we no longer have the resource to keep our doors open.
While this chapter is ending, we are proud of the impact we’ve made over the years, and would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey. Your dedication and support have been a tremendous help with our mission.
Though we are no longer active as an organization, some of our most powerful resources are still available.
If you would like to carry the torch forward [keep the candle burning], please visit our website for resources such as our 2024 Gambling Impact Review, as well as specific projects for youth and seniors and business owners.
with kind regards,
Bruce Dienes, Chair of Board of Directors, GRINS
DOWNLOAD our GAMBLING IMPACT REVIEW
OUR LOSS illuminates the far-reaching impacts of gambling in Nova Scotia, drawing from the genuine experiences of local people.
We explore how gambling affects institutions, business, youth, families, and individuals. We examine the hidden costs that gambling imposes on our communities, particularly in terms of health and social stability. And we challenge the myth that gambling has economic benefits.
Gambling Risk Informed Nova Scotia (GRINS) hopes the province will be a healthy, resilient place where people can thrive and flourish in communities free from gambling harms.
Gambling is legal, but it is not harmless. Gambling can lead to increases in bankruptcies, domestic violence, embezzlement, and even suicide. And there is a ripple effect. Millions of dollars in income that could have been spent in local businesses leave our communities each year. Donating to charities has changed into gambling– we give because we have the “chance” of winning back more than we gave. We pay more in taxes to cover the costs of increased needs for mental health, addictions and social services.
Gambling harms are felt by all of us as citizens, and especially by those of us who are particularly vulnerable such as youth and seniors.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
Discover some of the individual and community risks of gambling, and how there can easily be a domino effect.
HOW GAMBLING MANIPULATES US
Learn about the intentionally manipulative design of gambling practices.
PROJECTS
Find out what GRINS has worked on and how you can support the project.