What is Family Separation?
Family separation is when a Canadian Forces (CF) Regular force member or Reservist is required to be away from home for a period of 30 days or longer. This includes not just overseas deployments, but also Temporary Duty, Special Tasking, Field Exercises, Restricted Postings or a course.
Life in the Canadian Forces presents its own unique rewards and challenges. Often, being the family member left behind while a loved one is away, can be overwhelming and uncertain. At the Toronto Military Family Resource Centre (TMFRC), we know that family separation is a regular part of life in the military. During this time of uncertainty and loneliness, we want spouses, children, parents and siblings to know that you are not alone and that you have somewhere to turn and seek support, before, during and after the absence of your family member.
Please note, it is only possible to contact you if your military member has provided us with current and accurate information, or if you initiate contact with us yourself. So if you are a spouse, girlfriend/boyfriend, parent, siblings or other family member of a deploying or currently deployed military member and you reside in the GTA please contact the Deployment Support Team. We would love to hear from you. By registering with the TMFRC, you will be able to stay connected and informed and receive information about how to cope, how to send mail and how to meet others and share similar experiences. Be sure to connect with us as soon as you know about an upcoming separation, to ensure the necessary supports are in place for you and your family.
Who do we Support?
Traditionally, MFRCs have provided support to the “significant other” and children of a deployed military member. In late 2006 it was recognized that parents, siblings, grandparents and other close family members and friends require the same access to support while their loved one is deployed.
Often these family members live in a different geographic location to that of the military member. Therefore families may access support from the MFRC closest to them. The Toronto MFRC supports families living in the Greater Toronto Area from Oakville across to Oshawa and north to Lindsay.
What is Reunion?
Reunion is the return home after deployment. It is an event. Research by the American Red Cross shows that reunion can be more stressful for military families than the deployment! It is often the most anticipated and thought about phase of the deployment; but the least prepared for. The TMFRC offers information, programs and services prior to and during reunion to help you prepare for and cope with this stage of the deployment process.
What is Reintegration?
Reintegration is a process that occurs around 6-12 weeks after reunion. It is the period in which the returning military member and family settle back into life post deployment. Feelings of stability return and new routines are established. TMFRC provides information and services to family members during the reintegration process for up to two years following separation.