The neighborhood itself boasts little space and few programs for residents to engage in recreational activities. But according to a report released in October, many Chinatown residents are struggling with gambling addictions that negatively affect their finances, mental health and personal relationships.Īccording to the report, which was conducted by professor Carolyn Wong from UMass Boston and Giles Li from the Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center, Chinatown is particularly vulnerable to problem gambling because of a high concentration of poverty, low-paying jobs and lack of English proficiency. And 25 minutes after the Mohegan Sun bus pulled away from the curb, a black shuttle van departed the same spot bound for Encore Boston Harbor Resort in Everett.įor many who work long, grueling hours in Chinatown’s food service industry, gambling at nearby casinos presents one of few outlets for entertainment and social connection. Just 15 minutes before, a similar coach bus had departed from the same spot for Twin River Casino in Lincoln, Rhode Island. On a recent Monday in Boston’s Chinatown, a group of about 14 people stood outside The Chicken and Rice Guys restaurant on Bedford Street, waiting for an orange coach bus that would transport them to Mohegan Sun casino in Uncasville, Connecticut.
