GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS FASD AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority is providing $163,334 to agencies that promote awareness and prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

"It's so important that we continue to raise awareness about FASD in our communities," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "The harm caused due to drinking alcohol during pregnancy is totally preventable and we need to continue to spread that message."

The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute (SPI) will receive $81,000 to support continued development of the FASD Speakers' Bureau as well as regional FASD committees that develop community-level FASD prevention and awareness. SPI is also working to finalize a FASD multimedia awareness campaign and will be hosting a national FASD conference this fall.

The FASD Support Network of Saskatchewan will receive $82,334 to support the organization's FASD newsletter as well as other resource materials to assist people living with FASD as well as parents and families with FASD children. The funding will also be used to continue a program aimed at raising FASD awareness among post-secondary students who are studying for careers where they may come into frequent contact with individuals impacted by FASD.

SPI Executive Director Noreen Agrey said FASD is the leading cause of preventable disability in children and the continued financial support from government is vital to help raise awareness.

"Each new generation of parents needs to hear the message that alcohol is a substance that can cause damage to the developing fetus' brain and as a result, change behaviour," Agrey said.

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For more information, contact:

David Morris
SLGA
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1721

Noreen Agrey
Saskatchewan Prevention Institute
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-655-2514