Lakeland Centre for FASD   

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Mothers-to-be
 

 

 

 

The Mothers-to-be Mentorship Program (formerly called First Steps) is one of the programs the Lakeland Centre provides. Currently the program operates in the Cold Lake area, which includes Cold Lake First Nations and Elizabeth Métis Settlement. 

The Mothers-to-be program is unique in that it offers supports to women who are at high risk for having an alcohol affected baby. This is a program of advocacy for, and mentorship to, high-risk women to help them develop positive outcomes in their lives and build community supports. The goals are to:

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Reduce future births of children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

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Support and assist families in accessing needed community resources

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Provide mentorship and act as an advocate for the family

Currently there are a small number of similar programs in Canada but only in the major urban centers. This is the first program being offered to women living in rural areas where transportation and lack of appropriate services for pregnant women struggling with addiction problems are all but non-existent.

The program is in its 4th year of operation and has provided very rewarding and positive results for the women.

Mothers-to-be is based on a program that began in Seattle, Washington called the Birth to Three project. 

Our successes after 3 years are as follows:

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80% of mothers gave birth to healthy babies

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90% of mothers went to treatment/counseling for addictions while in the program

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80% housed = 33% have permanent housing (own homes)/ 47% now have rental housing

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30% have resumed or upgraded education

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70% of families connected to at least 3 community resources not previously accessed

Because our program is based in a rural area we are discovering innovative approaches and strategies to overcoming the barriers these women face. Rural communities must be creative in developing services and supports to these families.

For more information or to make a referral to the Mothers-to-be program contact the Lakeland Centre. We would be happy to hear your comments or answer any questions you may have. 

    Send mail to kmfascen@telus.net with questions or comments about this web site.
    Last modified: 08/18/06