KAROO NEWS - From 2019 to 2022, the Foundation for Alcohol-Related Research (FARR) offered a holistic project in Graaff-Reinet and Nieu-Bethesda. 

This project was reintroduced in March 2023 with the inclusion of Middelburg.

The reintroduction was motivated by a study of the prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in Graaff-Reinet and Nieu-Bethesda from 2020 to 2022, which reported an FASD prevalence rate of around 11%.

The project's theme for 2023, "Beyond All Limits," is rallying a call for the whole of society to reduce alcohol consumption. 

This is done through an approach that involves all relevant partners, clients, stakeholders, and resources in the respective areas.

"The warm welcome from the community and other stakeholders, such as the Departments of Health, Social Development, Education, and Correctional Services, upon the reopening, is testimony to the relevance and value of FARR's work," says Dr Leana Olivier, CEO of FARR.

Other projects include "Healthy Mother Healthy Baby," a variety of community education programmes, and door-to-door visits by FARR community workers.

For information about the project, please send an email to graaffreinet@farrsa.org.za, call 064 060 8059, or visit the office in the Nedbank Building (1st floor), Caledon Street, Graaff-Reinet.

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