Truter’s Faith distributes funds 19 July 2007

Addressing foetal alcohol syndrome

Coinciding with the Western Cape Department of Agriculture announcement of a consolidated Alcohol Abuse Forum, there is news of the first payments being made to NGOs from a fund established two years ago to finance charities working in the area of foetal alcohol syndrome.

Founded by the well-known Beyerskloof winemaker, the Beyers Truter Faith Fund was launched in 2005 to fund research, prevention and intervention projects to reduce the damage done by foetal alcohol syndrome, with support from local and international donors.

The first strategic payments were made to the Christian Literature Fund and the Takeaway Theatre Group. The Christian Literature Fund started an active campaign that includes pamphlets to convey the message of the foetal alcohol syndrome to the communities. The Takeaway Theatre Group presents theatre performances and workshops that tell the story about the causes and serious repercussions of foetal alcohol syndrome.

Foetal alcohol syndrome occurs when a woman consumes excessive alcohol while she is pregnant and the alcohol permanently damages the body of the unborn child, especially the brain.

Distribution of funds is determined by the Faith Fund's directors in conjunction with its advisory board. The Fund says it has, in the past 18 months, received requests for grants totalling R4.2 million. It gives preference to practical campaigns and projects.