When most people think of lotteries, they picture life-changing jackpots, overnight millionaires, and exciting stories of luck. But behind the thrill of winning, lotteries serve another, often overlooked, purpose: funding vital public services such as education, infrastructure, and community programs.
In many countries, lottery revenues aren’t just about lucky winners—they’re a key source of funding for schools, scholarships, and local initiatives that shape communities for the better.
The Case of New Hampshire: From Tickets to Textbooks
In the United States, New Hampshire provides one of the clearest examples of the positive impact lottery funds can have.
According to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute (NHFPI), lottery profits in the state have grown steadily over the past decade, becoming a critical source of public education funding. The New Hampshire Lottery, established in 1964 as the nation’s first modern state lottery, has contributed billions of dollars to education. Today, its revenue helps pay for essentials ranging from teacher salaries and technology upgrades to school building repairs.
This model shows how lottery games aren’t just entertainment—they’re also a financial backbone for public services.
A Global Perspective
New Hampshire isn’t unique. Around the world, many governments channel lottery proceeds into public good:
United Kingdom – The UK’s National Lottery funds arts, heritage, and community projects. Since its inception in 1994, it has raised over £47 billion for public causes.
United States (Other States) – In Georgia, lottery proceeds fund the popular HOPE Scholarship Program, giving thousands of students tuition support for college. In California, billions have been directed toward K–12 schools.
Canada – Provincial lotteries allocate a portion of their profits to healthcare, sports, and cultural programs.
South Africa – The National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund supports education, charities, and rural development.
Transparency Matters
While the contribution of lotteries to public services is significant, transparency is critical. Players and communities want to know where the money goes. Most lotteries now publish annual reports that show exactly how much is directed to education, healthcare, or community programs.
For example, in many U.S. states, about 25–35% of lottery revenue goes to public services, with the remainder covering prizes, retailer commissions, and operating costs. By being transparent, lotteries build trust and ensure that players know their participation contributes to a broader social good.
Why This Matters
Lotteries are often seen only as a gamble—but the reality is more complex. Each ticket sold has two potential impacts:
The chance to win big.
The certainty of contributing to public services.
This dual purpose makes lotteries unique among games of chance. They provide excitement and dreams for individuals, while also funding long-term investments in society.
Final Thought
Next time you buy a lottery ticket, remember: you’re not only chasing a jackpot—you’re also helping fund schools, scholarships, and community projects. Whether it’s a classroom in New Hampshire, a heritage site in the UK, or a scholarship in Georgia, lottery players worldwide are quietly shaping a brighter future.