KIDSFIRST ASSISTS FAMILIES IN REGINA

Released on November 20, 2006

The Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region received over $3 million this year to manage the KidsFirst program in Regina. The funding is part of $13.2 million in KidsFirst services to support healthy growth and development for children from prenatal to age five and their families in the North and eight other Saskatchewan communities.

"Our government is committed to providing KidsFirst support and services to families in Regina," Learning Minister Deb Higgins said. "The KidsFirst approach is founded on the knowledge that our overall health, well-being and coping skills as adolescents and adults are strongly influenced by our early learning experiences. By providing support to vulnerable families, we are helping to provide a solid foundation in the early years so that they can enjoy a productive future right here in Saskatchewan."

Through KidsFirst, prenatal outreach programs are available to support pregnant women. The universal birth questionnaire for newborns helps to determine the type of supports all families of newborns may require.

KidsFirst provides a home visiting program that promotes healthy families and the healthy development of children. Enhanced early learning and child care opportunities, access to community-based support including literacy, education and skills training, parenting and nutrition are also offered through KidsFirst. Dedicated mental health and addiction treatment services are also available.

KidsFirst Management Committees are comprised of representatives from human service provider agencies at the provincial, federal and local levels, including First Nation and Métis agencies. Local partnerships include such agencies as regional community resources, health regions, school divisions, food banks, police services, municipal governments, fire departments, women's shelters, transition houses, tribal councils and other community service organizations.

Regina, Prince Albert, Nipawin, Moose Jaw, Meadow Lake, North Battleford, Saskatoon, Yorkton and the North are all home to KidsFirst services.

The Government of Saskatchewan is recognizing the valuable accomplishments of Saskatchewan's KidsFirst program today in celebration of National Child Day.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: 306-787-5609 Email: jacquie.mclean@sasked.gov.sk.ca Cell: 306-535-2261