When you think off casino moguls and gaming operators, you wouldn’t normally picture the world’s most generous person. Executives in the gambling market are renowned for being self-serving - but they do step up in times of need.

This week, several gaming industry professionals have come forward to offer their support for victims of the recent Typhoon that devastated the Philippines.

Typhoon Haiyan

Over 2 million people have been displaced by the storm. The death is now at 3633 and over 12 000 people have been injured. Nearly 1200 people are missing. Homes and public buildings have been destroyed, and entire cities have been flattened.

The country has been devastated by Typhoon Haiyan, and the country needs a great deal of support.

Calvin Ayre’s Pledge

Calvin Ayre, who owns the Bodog online gambling brand, has pledged $1 million to the cause. He will match every donation to Typhoon victims up to $1 million, and has donated an additional $200 000.

His pledge encourages gaming operators to get involved in the effort. As one of the world’s most lucrative industries, casino operators have more than enough money to spare – and Mr Ayre wants to ensure that they are doing their part.

Poker Stars’ Donation

The Rational Group, which operators Full Tilt Poker and Poker Stars, is also getting involved. Players can donate money to the cause directly from their accounts. This is very beneficial because some online poker pros choose to keep their entire net wealth in the online accounts.

Now, they can donate to the cause in a convenient manner. Poker Stars and Full Tilt will also be running Dummy Tournaments, in which the full entry fee is donated to Care International rather than being paid into a prize pool.

“As we have done at other times of global disaster, we are mobilizing the poker community by launching a global online appeal in support of the victims of Typhoon Haiyan,” says Sue Hammett, Poker Stars’ Head of Corporate Giving.

Want to Get Involved?

If you’re involved in the online or land-based gaming market, you can have your donation match by Calvin Ayre. After you make a donation, forward a copy of your receipe to [email protected].

It is recommended that donations are made to the Philippine Red Cross and Sagip Kapamilya Foundation, as they will ensure that the money goes to the individuals that need it the most.