The Mission

• The Anna Westin Foundation is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. We are committed to preventing the tragic loss of life to anorexia nervosa and bulimia, and to raising public awareness of these dangerous illnesses.

Our Goals

1. Educate communities, parents and children about eating disorders
2. Support research which will help in the understanding of how and why eating disorders develop
3. Develop and support effective treatment for eating disorders
4. Be an advocate for people with eating disorders so they can get the treatment they need for as long as they need it

Advocacy

• The Anna Westin Foundation is actively involved in advocating for people with eating disorders. We are one of the families named in the lawsuit filed in October, 2000 by Minnesota Attorney General Mike Hatch against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota. The suit charges BCBSMN of systematically denying medically necessary treatment for people with eating disorders and other mental health concerns. In addition we have joined a national advocacy organization, the Eating Disorder Coalition for Research, Policy and Action and have begun organizing a grassroots family action council.

Speakers and Education

• Education and raising awareness of eating disorders is one of the foundations top priorities. Since September, 2000 we have spoken to over 1200 people in schools, churches and hospitals about eating disorders. To schedule a speaking engagement, contact the AWF office.

Resources

• The AWF provides a list of resources related to eating disorders to anyone looking for information. We are also developing a resource lending library that will include books, periodicals and videos. See our current list of Internet resources.

Support

• We encourage people to contact us with questions, concerns or ideas. It is important to us that people who are suffering from eating disorders and their family and friends have the support they need.