WHEREAS Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol in utero; and
WHEREAS each person with FASD has both strengths and individualized challenges and will require special supports and resources, throughout their lifetime, to help them succeed with many different parts of their daily lives and contribute to the community; and
WHEREAS current studies and research suggest that up to 4% of individuals in Canada have FASD (1 in 25 or 1,600,000 Canadians); and
WHEREAS throughout the world, since 1999, the 9th day of the 9th month (the 9th of September) has been observed as International FASD Awareness Day: A day devoted to raising awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) to improve prevention of FASD, and improve diagnosis, support and education for individuals with FASD; and
WHEREAS the Town of the Blue Mountains is committed to the care and support of all of its residents, including those individuals with FASD and their families;
Therefore be It resolved that I, Mayor Andrea Matrosovs, hereby proclaim September 9, 2023, to be FASD Awareness Day in The Town of the Blue Mountains.