Realizing the importance of preventive work at school, "Florence" centre began work in a joint Ukrainian-Canadian project on prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome.

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a pattern of birth defects, occurring as a result of excessive alcohol consumption by the mother during the prenatal period and breastfeeding.

Our project suggests holding lectures and presentations among the high school students, parents and teachers. It makes information on FASD accessible and comprehensible to everyone. After the performance, all schools receive a set of learning materials to enhance further preventive work.

Why is it necessary for children? The impact of alcoholic beverages consumption on young people as well as on their future children is the main ground for preventive work. Informing students of the consequences of alcohol abuse by women during pregnancy prevents them from the potential fatal consequences.

Intensive educational work among senior high school students is done in Zaporozhye today: over 60 lectures at 6 schools have been given so far. The subject proves to be of great interest to the students, while teachers acknowledge the relevance of the project and are open to cooperation.

Implementation of the project was made possible with the support of Mennonite Central Committee.