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Absence Support

Information and resources for friends and family members who are supporting military members away from home due to an absence.

Contact Information


Email: absence.support@emfrc.com

Is your military member away from home due to an absence (course, exercise, deployment, overseas, Imposed Restriction, etc.)? Register with us to receive work-related absence information on resources and services available to you and your family, get connected to the MFRC local to you and/or receive support in French.

Preparing for Deployment & Absence Resources and Services

Ready for that upcoming deployment or work-related absence? We recommend that you go through the following information before the departure date arrives.
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During Deployment & Absence Resources and Services

Currently experiencing a deployment or work-related absence? Discover the resources and services available to you and your family.
More information

Return and Reintegration Resources and Services

Prepare for homecoming and beyond with these resources.
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MFRC How to Send Morale Mail

Did you know you could send morale mail to your deployed military member for free? This service is available at the MFRC under the direction of the Fleet Mail Office. 
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Programming at the MFRC

A person planting a small herb in a white pot among other potted plants.

Wellness Wednesday: Gardening

In May, we will guide you through an evening of attainable home gardening skills. Get your hands dirty and learn about growing your own food! 
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A wooden crate filled with assorted fresh vegetables and fruits.

Community Kitchen

Enjoy cooking delicious meals and connect with other military families in this facilitated and fun cooking program. This month's theme is Garden Table: Fresh Spring Recipes!
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Person writing with a pen while sitting at a desk.

WorkBC Orientations

Looking for a job or wanting to improve your skills? We are hosting a series of employment workshops presented by a WorkBC Employment Facilitator.
Skills Identification Resume Writing
Close-up of an antique-looking globe.

Preparing for Deployment & Absences (Virtual)

Join us to learn a bit about what you can expect, discover some resources that may aid you and your family, and connect with others anticipating a deployment or work-related absence.
Register
Waterfront scene with a pathway and a blue building on stilts over the water.

Coffee Connections: Sidney Meetup

A community-building monthly social hour. In June, we will explore Sidney, checking out Sea Glass Beach and other local attractions.
Register
Children playing with toys in a bright classroom.

Parent & Child Programming

The MFRC offers several in-person options for parents to meet other parents, and for children to connect.
Stay & Play 123 Music & Me

Programming for Children and Youth

Stacked stones and sea glass with a sunset on a rocky beach.

Fast Friends (Ages 8-15): Beach Art

Learn about the history of sea glass in this interactive workshop and design your own piece of jewelry using locally sourced sea glass.
Register
Two children holding a small globe.

Supporting Children Through Absence

Help your child(ren) adjust to a parent being away on a deployment or work-related absence.
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Child assembling an alphabet puzzle with colorful blocks and rainbow arches.

Big Steps for Kinder Prep

We will create and prepare games, crafts and activities that target key skills for children to prepare for the coming school year.
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Respite Child Care During Absences

Available at no cost when a military parent is deployed or away for work-related reasons for 21 consecutive days or more. 
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