Saskatchewan's foster families will have access to additional Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) resources thanks in part to funding being provided by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA).
"The negative consequences of FASD are far reaching in Saskatchewan communities," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "The funding being provided by SLGA will help to further educate foster families and the public as a whole about the impacts of FASD while also driving home the point that consuming alcohol during pregnancy is not acceptable."
The FASD Support Network of Saskatchewan will receive $13,833 from SLGA. The funding is in addition to $68,000 the organization received from SLGA in November. The additional funding will be used by the organization to develop print materials being used in a new collaborative project with the Ministry of Social Services. The project will further educate and train Saskatchewan foster families about the behavioural challenges associated with FASD and help improve the experiences of children living with FASD.
SLGA is also providing $12,000 to the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute (SPI). The funding is in addition to $82,000 the organization received from SLGA in November. The additional funding will help the organization complete a new FASD public awareness campaign.
FASD Support Network of Saskatchewan Executive Director Jessica Kaban said government's ongoing commitment to FASD awareness, education and programming is important.
"It's critical that Saskatchewan foster families are equipped with the tools and understanding they need to support children in care who are living with FASD," Kaban said. "We appreciate SLGA's ongoing support of our efforts to educate about FASD and look forward to a collaborative approach with the Ministry of Social Services."