People born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) can face life-long mental, physical, behavioural and learning disabilities. FASD affects not only the individual, but also their families, caregivers and communities, which is why the Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians with this disorder.

“The National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Mentoring Project is a major step toward increasing awareness of the risks of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Early intervention is crucial to improving outcomes for individuals with FASD and their families. This program will improve knowledge and raise awareness of FASD in communities across Canada where the AHSUNC programs are offered.”

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Minister of Health

“Alcohol consumption can sometimes seem commonplace. However, it is not without risk, especially during pregnancy. With this funding, the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute will work with Aboriginal Head Start in Urban and Northern Communities sites across Canada to provide FASD information and resources in the communities they serve so that Canadian children can have the best start in life.”

The Honourable Ralph Goodale
Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

“FASD is a lifelong disorder that can result in physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities.  We need to support women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to have healthy, alcohol-free pregnancies.”

Dr. Theresa Tam
Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer

“We are pleased to have received this funding to continue our work supporting individuals, families and communities affected by FASD. We look forward to working with communities to further FASD prevention and early identification strategies that are evidence-based, trauma-informed and culturally appropriate. The national network of Mentors allows this important work to reach communities across Canada, increasing community capacity in the areas of FASD prevention and support for those affected by FASD.”

Joelle Schaefer,
Executive Director, Saskatchewan Prevention Institute

• While the exact prevalence of FASD is not known, it is estimated that 1% of Canadians suffer from the disorder.

• The National FASD Mentoring Project helps address Call to Action #33 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Call to Action #33 calls on federal, provincial and territorial governments to take steps to prevent FASD, in a culturally appropriate manner, in collaboration with Indigenous peoples.

• The Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines issued by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction recommends it is safest to not drink alcohol when pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Associated links

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Thierry Bélair
Office of Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Minister of Health
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Public Health Agency of Canada
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