The MFRC provides additional support and resources to meet families' needs during times of deployment. Deployment refers to the extended absence of the military member whether it be due to training, temporary duty, imposed restriction, or an overseas mission. The MFRC supports the well-being of family members, including partners, children, and parents prior to, during, and after these separations.
Deployment Briefings
The MFRC offers Deployment briefings in which the Deployment Coordinator will meet with the family to share and discuss services available. These meetings may be conducted on a one-on-one basis or in larger groups. Families are also given a package of information of help to the whole family.
Peer Support
The MFRC provides opportunities for families of deployed members to connect and support each other. In an effort to establish informal peer support networks. This may include a Meet and Greet, recreational opportunities, and monthly social gatherings.
Warm Line Call Service
The Warm Line Call is a confidential, informal telephone support network. It serves to connect families with the MFRC, community resources, and pertinent activities and events. In addition, the Warm Line caller provides an empathetic ear, recognizing and appreciating the rewards and challenges experienced by families of deployed members. Some families may choose to stay connected through email contact and this service is available as an alternative to or in conjunction with the Warm Line Call Service.
Emergency Respite Child Care
This service supports the family well-being of deployed CF members, and relieves some of the stresses related to child care. It is available to CF families when a period of respite is absolutely essential for the family's continued health and well-being (i.e. critical to the mental health of the child or caregiver).
Deployment Child Care
Casual Child Care is offered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30-11:30 am. This service is available to all military families for a fee. However families of deployed CF members are entitled to three FREE sessions per month. Pre-registration is required.
Wrapping/Mailing Parcels
At present, it is free to send parcels to members on overseas deployments. Families and friends are welcome to drop care packages off at the MFRC to be mailed overseas. The Centre has details about parcel restrictions and requirements and provides all necessary materials such as wrapping paper, packing tape, markers, etc.
Reunion Briefings
The anticipation of the return of a loved one can be both exciting and stressful, perhaps invoking a great deal of anxiety. The MFRC offers Reunion Briefings that may be conducted on a one-on-one basis or in larger groups as the need presents. The MFRC social worker is present and a representative from the Base Chapel may also be present, to ensure that families receive valuable information and assistance throughout the homecoming.
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