Kreider Services Secures $149K Grant to Enhance FASD Care

BREAKING: Kreider Services has just secured a significant $149,969 grant from the Telligen Community Initiative, aimed at expanding crucial services for children affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). This urgent funding, part of TCI’s Strengthening Families and Communities program, will enhance operations at the Florissa Pediatric Development Center in Dixon, Illinois.

The grant will enable comprehensive training for medical and mental health care providers, focusing on the vital recognition of prenatal alcohol exposure. This initiative is particularly timely as September is recognized as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Month. Dr. Laura Gumbiner, a licensed clinical psychologist at Florissa, emphasized the importance of the project, stating,

“Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders are common in the population but not commonly recognized or supported.”

The funding will empower local professionals to better identify and support children impacted by prenatal alcohol exposure, ensuring they receive necessary evaluations and evidence-based parenting interventions. This initiative is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of affected families, providing them with essential resources regardless of their financial situation.

“We are proud to support Kreider Services and the vital work being done at Florissa to support children with FASDs and their families,” stated TCI Executive Director Matt McGarvey. He further noted that this project aligns with TCI’s mission to address health disparities and enhance community well-being.

The announcement comes as TCI marks a record-setting year, having awarded over $2.4 million in grants across Illinois and Oklahoma, supporting more than 450 projects since 2014. This new funding is crucial in ensuring that families affected by FASD have improved access to vital services and support systems.

As Kreider Services implements this grant, the community is urged to stay informed about upcoming training sessions and resources that will become available. The initiative represents a critical step forward in raising awareness and improving outcomes for children with FASD in the region.

Stay tuned for further updates as Kreider Services embarks on this transformative project, which aims to bring much-needed change to the lives of families dealing with FASD.