MFRC Return & Reintegration Resources and Services

Prepare for homecoming and beyond with these resources.

Return & Reintegration Workshops

Join the MFRC for a short workshop to help you prepare for the return of your military member. We will discuss: what to expect, strategies for self-care, ideas for reconnecting and resources to ease the transition of homecoming. Watch your Family Network page for details and registration information.

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

Return and Reintegration Workshop Recording

Are you preparing for the return of your military member from 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 December 2023.

Banner Making Event & Pickup Kits

Let the MFRC assist you in preparing for your loved one’s homecoming by supplying you with all the materials needed to make welcome home banners and decorations. Email [email protected] to reserve your kit and arrange a pickup time during regular business hours from either our Colwood or Signal Hill MFRC location.

*Watch your Family Network page for details and registration information for banner making events specific to larger-unit deployments.

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.

Additional Resources

MFRC Family Networks - Connect with others going through the same experience, participate in social activities, and get the latest updates on deployments and work-related absences.
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

Preparing for Reunion as a Couple
Canadian Military Family Magazine - website and Facebook page
Support to Parents Facebook Group
Support to Parents of CAF Members