deployment resources and services Deployment Resources and Services Children’s Deployment Workbooks and Parent Guide
The MFRC has workbooks for children 3 to 12 years of age and an easy-to-use parent guide for the at-home parent that includes tips and activities for the deployed parent. Stop by any MFRC location to pick up your copy today or order online through the MFRC website. Deployment staff can assist you throughout the deployment via email support. Ces cahiers de travail pour les enfants et le guide d’accompagnement des parents sont disponibles en français.
Deployment App
Are you experiencing a deployment or soon to be? With the MFRC Deployment App, you can receive tips to guide you through all stages of your work-related separation, use checklists to keep track of your to-do lists, receive reminders of mail dates, search for your closest MFRC location and see how far you’ve come with a customizable countdown clock. Downloads available for iOS and Android devices via the Apple App Store and Google Play. Learn more at www.esquimaltmfrc.com/deployment/app.
Deployment Support Books
These booklets contain information to make deployment easier for military families. Pick up your booklet at any MFRC location, online, or request that one be mailed to your loved one! Ces ressources sont également disponibles en français.
Mail Drop Off Locations
Did you know that you may be able to send letters and parcels to your deployed member for free? The MFRC is an approved drop off site for the Fleet Mail Office for Units with published mail dates or for any land-based deployment outside of Canada. Visit www. esquimaltmfrc.com for addresses, cut off dates and guidelines. Wrapping stations at the MFRC may not be available due to COVID restrictions. International Customs Forms are available at each MFRC location. Please note: If your military member is away on a course or imposed restriction (IR), you must mail your letters or parcels through Canada Post.
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Parenting from Afar
Stay connected with your child during deployment. Grab a Children’s Deployment Workbook and a Parent Guide at any MFRC location, and the Parenting from Afar booklet. Tips for Preparing for a Deployment • Attend your Unit’s Pre-Deployment Briefing • Download the new MFRC Deployment App! • Join your unit’s Family Network – meet other families with similar experiences. • Pick up your MFRC Deployment Handbook – It is full of helpful information. • Attend the MFRC’s R2MR Dealing with and Preparing for Deployment Workshop Series • Include children in planning activities while their parent is away. • If you have children, sign them up for the Children’s Deployment Workshops. • Volunteer – check out our many Volunteer Opportunities online! Check out the emotional cycle of deployment online at www.esquimaltmfrc.com – It is full of helpful information. Check out the Preparing for Deployment section of the MFRC website at www.esquimaltmfrc.com – It is full of helpful videos, presentations, tools and checklists.
Sending Mail to Deployed Members
Did you know you could send mail and parcels to your deployed member for free? The MFRC will accept parcels and letters for deployed members at any of their locations. Call 250-363-2640 for information and guidelines.
Tips for Preparing for a Homecoming
• Attend the MFRC’s Return and Reintegration R2MR. • Share your feelings and expectations with one another • Try to think realistically about the homecoming, rather than building a fantasy in your head. • Connect with your unit’s Family Network – meet other families with similar experiences. • Check out the emotional cycle of deployment online at www.esquimaltmfrc.com – It is full of helpful information. • Plan family time with the children. • Remember that everyone will likely be anxious about obvious changes and will need reassurance of acceptance. • Include children in planning activities for homecoming. • Ignore rumors and try to wait patiently for official information concerning your partner’s return. • Avoid scheduling too many homecoming activities; the normal routine of a busy household may be challenging enough for a returning military member. CFB Esquimalt / MARPAC activity Guide
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