Photo: Lisa Rogozinsky (Coordinator, Edmonton Fetal Alcohol Network), Blair McCormick (ED, Calgary Fetal Alcohol Network), Dr. Troy Davies (CEO, Catholic Social Services), Jason Nixon, (Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services)

Retrieved from https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=8888831DAF0CF-917D-D934-831166399F01CCB1

Alberta’s social sector provides critical supports for thousands of individuals living with disabilities, including those with FASD. This commitment is on top of $25 million in operating funding already provided to Alberta’s FASD networks.

“Front-line workers supporting Albertans with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder show great dedication in caring for some of our province’s most vulnerable people, and we depend on their hard work to make sure people get the help they need. Alberta’s government is committed to supporting these workers by increasing wages to better attract and retain staff to care for vulnerable Albertans.”Jason Nixon, Minister of Community and Social Services

This funding raises average wages by approximately 10 per cent and is in addition to the $330 million announced by Alberta’s government as part of Budget 2023 to support front-line workers across Alberta’s social services sector.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Alberta government for increasing funding toward FASD support workers. The investment in these vital services acknowledges their crucial role in supporting individuals and families with FASD and will measurably impact our communities.”Blair McCormick, executive director, Calgary Fetal Alcohol Network

“In the spirit of September’s FASD Awareness Month, we are truly grateful for the invaluable support provided by the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services through the wage enhancement funding. This investment has not only fortified our mission but has been the cornerstone of our commitment to those who need it most. By empowering FASD networks and agencies to recruit and retain dedicated front-line staff, this funding has been instrumental in enhancing the lives of children, youth and adults with FASD, as well as caregivers and at-risk pregnant women and gender-diverse individuals. Together, we continue to build a stronger, compassionate community, one that recognizes the importance of every individual’s potential and well-being.”Lisa Rogozinsky, coordinator, Edmonton Fetal Alcohol Network