Ontario’s already bustling charitable gambling scene recently added a digital element to its diverse wagering menu.
On May 7, Casino Time announced the official launch of its Ontario online casino, CasinoTime.ca. In doing so, it became only the second online charitable wagering platform in Canada.
Delta Bingo launched a year ago.
The integration of a digital element aligns with the Casino Time’s long-standing vision of elevating social gaming in the province.
“We have been leading the revival of community gaming in Ontario for 20 years with cutting-edge gambling entertainment at the local level,” said Casino Time CEO D’Arcy Stuart in a release.
“Now through an exclusive partnership with iGaming Ontario, we’re bringing our offerings online across Ontario, providing more access to the social gaming revolution that has won us a legion of fans.”
To date, charitable gambling locations (37 province-wide) have generated over $500 million for local charities and non-profits in Ontario. This is according to figures from the Ontario Charitable Gaming Association.
Alongside retail facilities, digital platform has potential to enhance community funding
Casino Time’s iGaming site will also serve as an extension of its vast land-based presence. It has 10 affiliate charitable gaming venues between Windsor, London, Sarnia, Kingston, Tecumseth, Timmins, and St. Thomas.
Together, the joint gaming system increases the potential for more funds to flow into Casino Time’s partner communities.
Local programs in St. Thomas, for example, have already benefitted greatly from the existence of one of Casino Time’s retail cGaming branches. The city of almost 40,000 is a baseball hotspot, and funds from charitable gaming have helped keep it that way.
St. Thomas Minor Baseball Association president Diane Wakefield told PlayCanada that the partnership with Casino Time’s retail bingo partner Jackpot Time has provided essential funding for local baseball and some 100 other charities in and around the southwestern Ontario city.
“The charitable funding we received from working bingo’s at Jackpot Time this winter allowed us to purchase brand new catcher equipment for all 35 of our teams,” Wakefield said. “We are grateful to receive the funding and proud that it helps strengthen the St. Thomas community.
“Jackpot Time’s partnership with the Casino Time online casino and bingo sounds like a promising initiative. We hope in due time it will have a further positive impact on local charities and service organizations in and around St. Thomas.”
It might be a while before we can measure the impact of Casino Time’s online product in places like St. Thomas. But hopes are undoubtedly high for one of Ontario’s newest online casinos.
Casino Time to add sportsbook alongside casino game selection
Casino Time’s online wagering platform boasts a diverse catalogue of online casino games. Its main verticals include slots, live dealer casino games, and, of course, bingo.
One of those classic bingo games is Pragmatic Play’s Bingo Blast. As it stands, Casino Time is the only Canadian iGaming operator to offer players regulated access to that brand of bingo.
The operator also told PlayCanada in an email that it’s set to expand its wagering portfolio. It will open a sportsbook in late 2024. Although online casino reigns supreme in Ontario, the sportsbook will no doubt be a welcomed addition for Casino Time’s customers.
“Casino Time and its affiliates prioritize community and inclusivity, fostering a social gaming experience that brings people together,” a company spokesperson said in an email.
“With over 50 years of serving the gambling community in Ontario, Casino Time’s team is rooted in a legacy of excellence. Casino Time is committed to meeting the expectations of players who value the gaming experience associated with its affiliates…”