Alberta program aids inmates with FASD in life beyond bars

An Alberta program is achieving success in helping inmates diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) reintegrate into society. The Transitional Mentorship program, operated by the Willow Winds Support Network in Edmonton, provides crucial support to individuals navigating the challenges of life after incarceration.

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I was in the Edmonton remand centre and they were putting on a seminar for FAS (fetal alcohol syndrome) or people with FAS.

Katlin Sharko, 40, described his previous cycle of reoffending after release. He learned about FASD through a seminar in the Edmonton remand center and recognized himself in the disorder's symptoms. After his father confirmed his mother may have consumed alcohol during pregnancy, Sharko sought help from Willow Winds.

FASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disability resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure. It affects individuals differently, impacting cognitive functions, behavior, and daily coping mechanisms. Sharko was diagnosed with FASD, depression, and ADHD. A transition worker, specializing in FASD, built a relationship with him while he was in custody, preparing him for release.

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I took the sheets and reviewed them in my cell and saw how it related to me.

Julie Nanson-Ashton, executive director of the Central Alberta FASD Network, explained that workers assist clients by picking them up from correctional facilities, helping them settle into new homes, scheduling medical and financial appointments, and providing transportation. This support aims to bridge the gap that often leads individuals with FASD back to reoffending, homelessness, substance use, and deteriorating mental health.

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If we miss the individual when they leave that door, then what choice do they have? They’re walking into homelessness, they’re looking at re-offending, they are looking at re-engaging with substance use, and then their mental health deteriorates, right? Whereas they’ve got some hope.

Nanson-Ashton highlighted that many offenders with FASD struggle due to past strained relationships. They often make rash, impulsive decisions without fully understanding the consequences. The program's intervention seeks to offer hope and stability, preventing a relapse into negative cycles by providing consistent guidance and support.

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They make decisions that are rash, impulsive, and they don’t understand what the outcomes are going to be.