News Release
November 20, 2006
Learning - 825
KIDSFIRST ASSISTS FAMILIES IN MEADOW LAKE
The Prairie North Health Region received over $800,000 this year to manage the KidsFirst program in Meadow Lake. 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. "All children should have the best possible early learning experiences, and families should have support and assistance in their communities," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister Maynard Sonntag and Meadow Lake MLA said on behalf of Learning Minister Deb Higgins. "Our government is committed to providing KidsFirst supports and services to families in the North, in Meadow Lake and seven other communities in Saskatchewan. By providing supports to these 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 supports 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. Meadow Lake, Moose Jaw, Nipawin, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Regina, 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.-30-
For More Information, Contact:
| Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: 306-787-5609 Email: jacquie.mclean@sasked.gov.sk.ca Cell: 306-535-2261 |