MFRC Parenting

Social and Mental Wellness

Wellness Wednesdays

Join us for an informal discussion around various mindful topics with the challenges of the military lifestyle in mind. Each session will include an informal learning opportunity around health and wellness, and a short guided meditation. Register online at esquimaltmfrc.com/events. Location: Online MFRC Wed May 12, June 9, July 14 & Aug 11, 7:30-9pm

Social and Mental Wellness Resources and Services

Emergency Family Plan and Family Care Plan

You need to plan ahead for the unexpected. If something happened to an at-home family member during a deployment, you need to have a workable emergency family plan. The MFRC can help you develop your plan, look at ways to build your support system and may be able to provide some assistance upon assessment. Call the MFRC at 250-363-2640 for details. You can also contact the MFRC intake line directly at 778-533-7736 or intake@emfrc.com.

Have you ever had a pet? Have you ever wanted one?

Learn about how our cat, George, became part of our family, the joy he brought, and the love he shared with us... right until the very end. An endearing story about a very special cat, George will touch your hearts and show you how powerful the love of a pet can be. The book is available in English and French and partial proceeds from each book sale are donated to animal rescue.

AVAILABLE THROUGH

www.exclusivelyjk.ca

Extra/Diverse Support Needs

The Esquimalt MFRC offers one-to-one support for Canadian Armed Forces families that have a family member with extra needs. We can work with you to: • Navigate various community services including education, mental health, early years and health related care systems. • Advocate for services. • Develop a personalized support plan for children/youth/adults with extra/diverse needs including complex needs. Option to facilitate a team approach with parents/caregivers and community service providers involved with a family. • Create a family care and support plan for upcoming deployments. • Find services for caregivers supporting aging family members or a family member with health concerns. • Prepare for a posting in or out of Greater Victoria. Need assistance? Give the MFRC a call at 250-363-2640. You can also contact the MFRC intake line directly at 778-533-7736 or intake@emfrc.com.

Short-term Counselling

Individuals, couples and families can access short-term counselling sessions at the MFRC in a confidential atmosphere of support. Registered social workers and counsellors provide support with stress, relationship issues, parenting challenges, the military lifestyle plus much more. The MFRC also provides quality referrals to outside counselling resources and specialized support services. Sessions can be done on-site or virtually via your computer, smartphone or tablet. Call 250-363-2640 for details. You can also contact the MFRC intake line directly at 778-533-7736 or intake@emfrc.com.

Strongest Families

Social workers/counsellors can make a referral to “Strongest Families” on behalf of families who want to acquire parenting assistance. Supports are available for children/youth ages 3-17 who require strategies to address anxiety and behavioural issues. Additional supports can also be provided to address concerns associated with aspects of the military lifestyle. Parents can access more support through coaching by telephone. Call the MFRC and ask for the intake phone line for more information.

Parenting Support

Growing Parents

A supportive and educational group for new and expecting parents. Guest speakers and discussions related to pregnancy and parenting babies up to 18 months of age. Make connections with other parents, share information and learn about community resources in this fun, interactive facilitated group. Come to one or all of the sessions! Topics include sleep, starting solids, self-care, comfort measures, infant safety and much more. Register by emailing intake@ emfrc.com. Location: Online MFRC Tues May 4-Aug 31, 10:30-11:30am