Madison, Wis. -- The Wisconsin Lottery is joining lotteries across North America in celebrating the sixth annual Lottery Week, beginning July 15.

From funding crucial programs to fostering economic growth and supporting local initiatives, lotteries play a vital role in the lives of millions. Lottery Week recognizes the collective contributions of lotteries throughout the United States and Canada to the communities they serve.

Since its inception in 1988, the Wisconsin Lottery has helped generate over $5.7 billion in property tax credits for eligible Wisconsin homeowners. In addition, retailers large and small throughout the state have earned a combined total compensation of $1.2 billion and players have won more than $10.8 billion in prizes.

According to North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, an average of 95% of the revenue generated from traditional U.S. lottery games goes directly back into the economy through prizes, retailer commissions, and public beneficiaries. Through their contributions, lotteries support a diverse array of programs such as property tax relief, healthcare reform, and environmental conservation. These funds help improve the quality of life for individuals and communities, providing essential services and resources.

"It feels great to celebrate Lottery Week knowing we are continuing to fulfill our mission and provide Wisconsin homeowners with property tax relief," said Wisconsin Lottery Director Cindy Polzin. "We're honored to join other lotteries across the country in celebrating the positive impacts we've made to our communities."

Positively impacting communities across Wisconsin is just part of the Lottery's commitment to social responsibility and community welfare. The Lottery is proud to team up annually with the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling, the World Lottery Association, and the National Council on Problem Gambling to educate retailers and consumers on responsible gaming.

During Lottery Week, Wisconsin Lottery social media sites will use the hashtag #LotteryWeek to feature retailers and winners. Additionally, the Lottery will host a giveaway on July 17 (National Lottery Day) via social media and the Players Club email where participants can win one of three fantastic prizes. Participants must be 18 years old and a Wisconsin resident to enter the giveaway.

Lottery Week evolved from an idea implemented with great success by the Massachusetts Lottery in 2018. Declaring July 17, 2018, as the official National Lottery Day, Massachusetts offered consumer and retailers a special day of lottery offers and celebrated the provision of billions of dollars in local aid provided since the state's lottery was created in 1972.