MFRC 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.

Family Networks

Is your military member anticipating, currently, or recently returned from a deployment or work-related absence? Register with us to receive deployment and work-related absence support by becoming a part of your Family Network, connecting with the MFRC local to you, and/or receiving support in French.

Preparing for an Absence Checklists

Who doesn’t love a checklist? These checklists will assist you in preparing for the unexpected and for routine aspects of daily life prior to a deployment/absence (ie. course, exercise, deployment, overseas, Imposed Restriction). There is a general checklist as well as one specific to single members and parents of members which includes categories such as: Legal, Financial, Home, Travel, Health, Vehicle, and more.

Preparing for Deployment & Absences Workshops

Join us to learn a bit about what you can expect, discover some resources that may aid you and your family, and connect with other Military families anticipating a deployment or work-related absence. Watch your Family Network page for details and registration information.

*The MFRC schedules deployment and absence workshops based on the Operation Schedule – however we can offer workshops for smaller units/deployments based on requests and interests. Contact [email protected] to inquire.

Preparing for Deployment & Absences Workshop Recording

Are you preparing for a deployment or work-related absence? Check out this presentation to help prepare your family and learn about the resources and supports available to you! Recorded September 2024.

Pre-Deployment Briefings for Deploying Ships

This is an opportunity to learn more about the ship’s mission, resources for loved ones and pre-deployment preparation information for the family and member. Speakers will include the Command Team, MFRC, AJAG, Fleet Mail Office, Medical and Pay.

These sessions are held prior to a ship's deployment. Watch your Family Network page for details and registration information.

Military Family Identification Card (MFID)

Military families can use the Military Family ID (MFID) card to access parts of CFB Esquimalt, including free access to the Naden Gym, and as identification for getting military discounts from local businesses. It is available to dependents of military members at CFB Esquimalt such as spouses/common-law partners and their children (ages 14 and above).

*Please note that the military member and card applicant must be present in order to issue an MFID card. The military member must present their Member Personnel Record Resume (MPRR) naming eligible family members.

Deployment & Absence Resources and Services for Parents, Children & Youth

Is your family anticipating or currently experiencing a deployment or work-related absence? Learn about the resources and services available for parents, children, and youth during these times.

Find information on our Supporting Children Through Absence workshops, Respite Child Care During Absences, Children's Deployment Workbooks & Parent Guide, and more!

Short-Term Counselling

(For children ages 5 and over, couples, and families)

The Family Wellness and Counselling team includes a committed team of highly trained professionals, including Registered Social Workers and Counsellors. Team members understand the unique aspects of the military lifestyle and are committed to supporting families navigating experiences such as deployments and postings.

They can provide short-term counselling and personalized support for military lifestyle-related issues including:

Mental health support
Relationship issues
Parenting challenges
Coping with challenging situations

Intake information: [email protected] and 778-533-7736

Emergency Family Plan

It is essential to plan for the unexpected for you and your family. It is critical to have a workable emergency family plan if something happens at home to a family member during a work-related absence. This resource includes spaces for information on emergency contacts, child(ren), dependent adult(s), and pets.

Volunteering at the Esquimalt MFRC

Volunteering touches all that we do at the MFRC. A wide range of volunteer opportunities exists for you to become involved and make a positive impact in the military family community.

We are currently seeking: Family Network Volunteers, Community Engagement Volunteers, and General Program Volunteers.

Additional Resources

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.
MFRC Events Calendar - A list of upcoming and ongoing events and activities online and in-person at the Esquimalt MFRC.

Mental Health & Wellness Supports

Important Phone Numbers & Links – Important phone numbers and website links at CFB Esquimalt and in the Greater Victoria community.
Family Information Line (1-800-866-4546) - Provides free 24/7 counselling supports for military connected families.
CF Members Assistance Program (1-800-268-7708) - Offers 24/7 assistance in finding a counsellor in the community. This program is free for military members and their families.
Emotional Cycle of Deployment - Based on experience and research with military families who have experienced a more traditional long-term deployment.

Military Community Supports

Supporting Canadian Armed Forces Members and Families Facing an Absence
Getting Ready for an Absence as a Couple
Canadian Military Family Magazine - website and Facebook page
Support to Parents Facebook Group
Support to Parents of CAF Members