MFRC Program Guide - January-June 2019

Program Guide

January-June 2019

250-363-2640

1-800-353-3329

esquimaltmfrc.com

Who will step in if something happens to you?

To your partner? Who do you want contacted in an emergency? No one expects the unexpected, but having an Emergency Family Plan in place means the people you care about most will know what to do if the unexpected happens.

Community organizations like the MFRC are often unable to provide assistance in the first 72 hours of an emergency, so you need to make sure there are supports in place for your loved ones.

Not sure where to start? We can help you prepare a plan and connect with the resources you’ll need. Give us a call today.

esquimaltmfrc.com/emergencyplan MFRC Info line: 250-363-2640

Deployment Childcare during Deployment Programming Finding child care while a military member is away can be a challenge.

Free on-site child care is available to deployment program participants if the military member is deployed. It is also available if the military member is attending a deployment workshop with their partner. Requests must be made at least seven days in advance by calling the MFRC at 250-363-2640. Parents should provide a healthy snack and drink for their child.

Pre-Deployment Build Your Own Everything Binder Prepare for everything deployment with this two-hour workshop. You’ll be guided through building your binder with the information you may need at a moment’s notice. Keep track of everything – from important phone numbers to who to call if the car or washing machine breaks down to when each and every bill is due.

Childcare is available if registered in advance. Parents please provide a snack for your child.

Location: CPAC Mon Feb 25

6:30-8:30pm

Location: CPAC Mon June 10

6:30-8:30pm

Children’s Deployment Workbooks and Parent Guide: Info Session If your child can’t make it into a deployment workshop, there are workbooks for kids age 3-12 available for you to use at home. There is also an easy-to-use parent guide for the at-home parent that includes tips and activities for the deployed parent. Come learn more about the workbooks, the parent guide and how to use them in this valuable information session. Parents are asked to provide a snack for their child.

Check esquimaltmfrc.com for the next date

Preparing for Deployment (R2MR) Is your member already away on a workrelated separation? Or are they getting ready to deploy? Are you prepared?

Are you informed of MFRC services?

Would you like a chance to learn more about preparing for and dealing with a deployment? Have your questions answered by those “in the know.” Register at least seven days in advance. Free onsite child care is available by request.

Part 1: For Adults Location: CPAC Wed Feb 20 6:30-8:30pm

Part 2: With Children Location: CPAC Wed Feb 27 6:30-8:30pm

RESOURCES 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!

Copies of these manuals are available to deployed members on their ships and electronically upon request. Deployment staff can assist you throughout the deployment via email support.

Deployment App Deploying soon? There is now an app for that. 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, and see how far you’ve come with a customizable countdown clock. Downloads available

for iOS, Android and Blackberry devices via the Apple App Store, Google Play and Blackberry Worldwide. Learn more at www.esquimaltmfrc.com/deployment/ app.

Deployment Support Books These booklets contain information to make deployment easier for military families. There are versions specifically for sea, land and submarine deployments. Pick up your booklet at any MFRC location, view it online or request that one be mailed to your loved one!

Parenting from Afar Stay connected with your child during deployment. Look for activities and tips in Raising Your Military Child on the MFRC website (www.esquimaltmfrc. com). You can also pick up Children’s Deployment Workbooks and a Parent Guide at any MFRC location, and the Parenting from Afar book.

Family Networks

Get the latest information and updates about your loved one’s deployment, participate in social activities, and get mutual support from others who are going through the same experience. Check out the Family Network web page at esquimaltmfrc.com. Fill out the Family Information Form/Card and drop it off at the MFRC. Information you provide is kept strictly confidential.

443 Squadron MH443.family@shaw.ca HMCS Calgary calgary.family@shaw.ca HMCS Ottawa ottawa.family@shaw.ca HMCS Regina regina.family@shaw.ca HMCS Vancouver vancouver.family@shaw.ca HMCS Winnipeg winnipeg.family@shaw.ca MCDV mcdv.family@shaw.ca MV Asterix asterix.family@shaw.ca Submarines subs.family@shaw.ca Terra Firma Deployed terrafirma.deployed.family@shaw.ca

During Deployment

Location: CPAC Tues Apr 9-May 28

9:30-10:45am

Away Cafés Would you like to meet others dealing with a deployment? Come relax, take a break, meet new people and enjoy a cup of coffee! Share and learn tips about dealing with the military lifestyle. Register at least seven days in advance. Parents please provide a snack for your child.

Age 5-8 years Location: CPAC Tues Feb 12-Mar 19

3:30-4:45pm

Location: CPAC Tues Apr 9-May 28

3:30-4:45pm

Age 9-12 years Location: CPAC Mon Feb 11-Mar 18

3:30-4:45pm

Location: CPAC Mon Apr 8-May 27

3:30-4:45pm

Kindergarten-12 years Location: CPAC Wed Feb 13-Mar 20

6:30-7:45pm

Location: CPAC Wed Apr 10-May 29

6:30-7:45pm

Wednesday Nights Location: CPAC Wed Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar 13, Apr 10, May 8 & June 12 6:30-8:30pm Free childcare is available if requested in advance Saturday Mornings Location: CPAC Sat Jan 19, Feb 9, Mar 9, Apr 27 & May 11 9:30-11:30am Free childcare is available if requested in advance Thursday Mornings Location: CPAC Thur Jan 17, Feb 21, Mar 21, Apr 18, May 16 & June 20 9:30-11:30am *No free childcare available for Thursday mornings. If childcare is required book through Casual Child Care at 250-363-2674 up to 8 days in advance.

*Note: No evening workshop on Wed Feb 27, Mar 27, Apr 24, May 22 or June 26.

Children’s Deployment Workshops Help your young child adjust to a parent being away on deployment. Kids interact with other children who are going through the same experience. These workshops will help validate your child’s feelings about deployment. Space is limited, please register your child in advance.

Deployment Bingo Come out and meet fellow spouses/ partners dealing with a deployment in a fun-filled night of bingo and prizes.

Light refreshments will be served. Free childcare is available if requested in advance. We ask that parents provide a snack for their child. All participants are asked to register by at least seven days in advance.

Age 3-5 years Location: CPAC Tues Feb 12-Mar 19

Location: CPAC Wed Jan 23, Feb 27, Mar 27, Apr 24, May 22 & June 26 6:30-8:30pm

9:30-10:45am

Easter Brunch Potluck Even though your member is deployed, hop on over to the MFRC and share this special morning with your “Deployment Family.” This will be a brunch potluckstyle event with crafts on hand for the children. This event is sponsored by the Family Networks. All participants must register 7 days in advance. Also email your Family Network to let them know what you will be bringing. Note this is an interactive event. Child care is only available for children 24 months and under.

Location: CPAC Sat Apr 13 10am-Noon

Father’s Day BBQ at Goldstream Park Everyone is welcome to come out and celebrate this special day even if you have a member away. Watch for the Unit’s Banners, we will tie them in the general picnic area of Goldstream Park.

Walk to the Nature House or explore other trails with military families from your community. The MFRC along with the CANEX provides beverages, hotdogs and all the fix’ens plus smore making supplies. Register by June 8.

Location: Goldstream Park Sat June 15 11:30am-3pm Lunch: 11:30am-1:30pm Walk to the Nature House 1:30-3pm

HMCS Regina Meet and Greet Come meet others from your ship. Let the MFRC watch the kids while you kick back, share some laughs and connect with others like yourself. Free childcare is available if requested in advance. We ask that parents provide a snack for their child. All participants are asked to register at least 7 days in advance.

Location: CPAC Sat Feb 9 9:30-11:30am

HMCS Regina Sunday Information Sessions Stay informed about your deployment.

During the Commanding Officer’s presentation, you will learn what the ship has been up to and get the chance to ask questions. Senior members of the Canadian Fleet Pacific will be on hand to address any concerns. Child minding is available if booked one week in advance.

Location: CPAC Sun Mar 10, May 5, June 2, July 7 & Aug 18 Lunch: Noon-12:45pm Network Meeting: 12:45-1:15pm Commanding Officer’s Presentation: 1:152:15pm Wellness Workshop: 2:30-4pm

Mother’s Day Tea We would like to pay tribute to Mother’s everywhere with a special Mother’s Day morning tea. Is your member away?

Share the morning with others who also have a partner away. Come share this special day with us and we will have exciting crafts on hand for the participants that can be kept or sent to the deployed mothers. Register by April 30.

Location: CPAC Sat May 11

9:30-11:30am

Registration Call 250-363-2640 (toll free: 1-800-353-3320) to register for all MFRC programs, unless otherwise noted.

SERVICES Deployment Respite Child Care Funded by donations to the MFRC, respite child care is available at no cost when a military parent is deployed for 21 consecutive days or more. You can receive one continuous 3 hour session per week up to a maximum of 4 free sessions per month. Punch cards keep track of family usage. Parents must complete registration forms and follow established guidelines.

Ages 6-18 months Location: CPAC Tues-Fri 9am-noon Ages 18 months-5 years Location: CPAC Tues & Thur 9am-noon & 1-4pm Fri 9am-noon Sat 9am-noon (note: maximum of 8 children for Saturday sessions) Call 250-363-2674 to reserve.

Book up to 8 days in advance if deployed. *Additional sessions are available at a rate of $15 per 3 hour session per child for those between 6-18 months in age and $12 per 3 hour session for those 18 months to 5 years old (does not include Saturday spots).

Mail Drop Off Locations Send mail 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. The MFRC will accept parcels and letters for deployed members at either CPAC MFRC or Signal Hill MFRC. Visit esquimaltmfrc. com for addresses, mail dates and guidelines. 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.

Staying in Touch Service Sign up yourself or a loved one for a “Staying in Touch” phone call or email to take place through a deployment.

You will receive updates on the activities and services available to you through the Base and Community as well as updates on your member’s mission. We call anywhere in Canada. To subscribe, phone us or update your MFRC Family Information Form.

Preparing for Homecoming Banner Making 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. Free onsite childcare provided. Register seven days in advance.

Visit esquimaltmfrc.com for upcoming workshops

Return and Reintegration (R2MR) Military families have identified reunion as their most challenging time to manage. Having an understanding of the impact of transitioning back from a deployment to everyday life is essential for your entire family - including your returning loved one. Discover useful techniques and tips to have a successful homecoming. The first session focuses on adults and the second on helping children. Free on-site childcare available.

Visit esquimaltmfrc.com for upcoming dates

WE KNOW MILITARY LIFE

Your MFRC is an independent non-profit, staffed by qualified professionals. We know the military lifestyle – inside and out. Talk to us about everything from relocation to deployment, childcare, and counselling provided by registered social workers.

Learn more about us at esquimaltmfrc.com

Relocation English as a Second Language Do you want to learn English or improve your English? Do you feel the need to improve your English to better communicate with your partner? The MFRC offers courses to CAF adult family members. The classes, taught by a professional, incorporate conversation, culture, grammar and writing to facilitate your integration into your community.

Beginner Location: St. Peters Church, Belmont Park Mon, Tues & Thur Jan 7-Mar 28

9-11:30am Location: St. Peters Church, Belmont Park Mon, Tues & Thur Apr 8-June 20 9-11:30am Intermediate/Advanced Location: St. Peters Church, Belmont Park Mon, Tues & Thur Jan 7-Mar 28

1-3:30pm Location: St. Peters Church, Belmont Park Mon, Tues & Thur Apr 8-June 20

1-3:30pm

French as a Second Language Are you posted to a bilingual base or Francophone community? Do you feel the need to develop your second language to better communicate with your partner? The MFRC offers the opportunity to access online Rosetta Stone language training to CAF adult family members. Rosetta Stone uses a

method that combines listening, reading, speaking and writing.

How to Get a Government Job Applying for employment with both the provincial and federal government can be a daunting process. This workshop will lead you through the process of applying for government positions and give you the knowledge and tools to navigate these systems.

Location: CPAC Mon Jan 21

6:30-8:30pm

Military Family Finances 101 Join expert Suzie Fines from SISIP Financial for a short presentation to help you understand financial planning for the military lifestyle. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A with Suzie and a panel of military family members.

You will learn the basics of military pay, financial planning as well as practical tips and tricks for sticking to a budget and successful saving.

Location: CPAC Wed Jan 16

6:30-8pm

Volunteer Orientation Come receive an overview of the MFRC, learn more about the volunteer application process, and learn the requirements for volunteering in the military family community. Participants will find out about existing opportunities

and have a chance to ask questions.

Childcare available if requested a week in advance.

Location: CPAC Wed Jan 9, Feb 6, Mar 6, Apr 3, May 8 & June 5 6:30-7:15pm

Volunteer Personal Enrichment If you are interested in learning some new skills and want to meet other likeminded volunteers, join us at one of the monthly training opportunities. Childcare available if requested a week in advance.

the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre.

MFRC Information Line MFRC staff members are ready to take your call. They can answer your questions, provide assistance or do the research to find the information you need. Call 250-363-2640 (toll free: 1-800-353-3329).

Military Family ID Card The card is available to all regular and reserve military family members age 10 years and up. Use it to access base services such as the Naden Athletic Location: CPAC Wed Jan 9, Feb 6, Mar 6, Apr 3, May 8 & June 5 Centre, to access Dockyard/Colwood by vehicle for pickups and drop-offs, and to 7:30-8:30pm receive discounts from local businesses.

The CAF member must be present West Coast Welcome to sign the card at the time of issue If you are new to the area or want to and present their MPRR. The MFID is learn what’s new at the MFRC, you are invited to an open house at our Colwood available at Signal Hill MFRC and CPAC location. More info in the Events section. MFRC. Returning in September of 2019

SERVICES Employment and Education Support If you need employment assistance related to being a military family member new to the area, the MFRC has trained staff to provide guidance on gaining meaningful employment. There are also employment workshops and employer information sessions hosted at

Welcome Resources When you arrive in Victoria, be sure to pick up your Welcome Bag from either MFRC location. In it, you will receive: • The MFRC’s Welcome Book – a comprehensive guide to CFB Esquimalt and Greater Victoria • Area maps including bike and trail maps • Visitor guides for Greater Victoria • MFRC swag and more!

Get Involved Learn new skills, meet new people and give back to the community! Join the MFRC’s volunteer team today! View the latest volunteer opportunities at esquimaltmfrc.com.

A/SLt Brendan Carver

A/SLt Brendan Carver

Everyone is family You may be single or in a relationship. You may or may not have kids. Your parents might be living on the other side of the country. No matter what your family looks like, we’re here for you.

We are your resource centre, and you are family.

Start exploring the many services that benefit everyone at esquimaltmfrc.com

Wellness Important Financial Decisions Upon Medical Release Are you connected to someone who is medically releasing from the CAF? Do you have a financial plan for transition?

In this workshop, a SISIP financial advisor will shed light on the release process and address your concerns regarding tax planning, CAF pension options, investments, insurance coverage, RDSP and VAC disability awards.

Returning in Fall 2019

Kids Have Stress Too This interactive workshop focuses on the important role of parents and caregivers in helping young children learn to manage stress. The child’s ability to cope with stress in the early years has consequences for physical and emotional health throughout life.

This workshop offers practical tools for recognizing stress and supporting children to build resilience. Please register by February 22.

Location: CPAC Thur Feb 28

6:30-8:30pm

Mental Health First Aid In support of the Veteran Community and in partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada, a customized version of the Mental Health First Aid is available for members of the Veteran Community.

Mental health first aid is the assistance provided to a person who is developing a mental health problem or who is in a mental health crisis. Members of the Veteran Community will receive this training at no cost. Seats are limited and registration will be on a first-come, firstserve basis.

Location: CPAC Sat Jan 26 & Sun Jan 27 8:30am-4:30pm

Living Life to the Full Want to feel happier, have more energy, gain confidence, and feel less stressed?

Understand your feelings and learn skills to tackle life’s problems. This course introduces the use of cognitive behavioural techniques to manage stress and change and make a difference!

Contact the MFRC to be put on an interest list

Registration Call 250-363-2640 (toll free: 1-800-353-3320) to register for all MFRC programs, unless otherwise noted.

RESOURCES AND SERVICES Diverse and Special Needs The Family Navigator Coordinator at the Esquimalt MFRC offers one-to-one support for Canadian Armed Forces families with a family member who has extra needs. This person can work with you to: • navigate the special needs, education, mental health, and health care systems • advocate for services • develop a support plan for persons with diverse needs • create a family care and support plan for upcoming deployments • find services for caregivers caring for an elderly family member 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.

Emergency Family Planning 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.

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 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.

Triple P – One on One Consultation Triple P offers one-on-one consultations to support you with implementing strategies and techniques that promote positive parenting. We have the ability to support children from toddler age up to the age of 15.

Veteran Family Journal A tool designed to assist the medically releasing CAF members, medically released Veterans and their families make a successful transition from military life to civilian life. The Journal is unique to each family because it is a source of information as well as a place to keep personal notes, contact information and reference materials you can rely on as you transition from CAF member to Veteran status. Pick up a copy at any MFRC location.

Veteran Family Program The MFRC’s mandate now includes medically-releasing members, veterans and their families. The MFRC can provide: • One-on-one support navigating the civilian health care, employment, and mental health systems • Help finding appropriate community resources for a family member • Short-term counselling or social work services • Transition programs and workshops

Parent & Child Early Years 123 Music & Me Have fun with music! This is one of our most popular programs, very lively and will be very enjoyable for you and your child. Through a partnership with Victoria Conservatory of Music, you and your child will listen to an Early Childhood Music Educator and have a chance to make your own music with a variety of instruments. Please note: maximum 2 children per adult participating in program.

For parents and their babies up to 24 months Location: CPAC Tues Jan 8-Mar 19 9-9:30am For parents and their child 2 to 5 years Location: CPAC Tues Jan 8-Mar 19 9:30-10am

Books for Breakfast Program The MFRC is inviting parents or caregivers and their children (up to the age of 6) to join us for an hour of healthy breakfast snacks, great stories and interactive songs. Each family group will receive a book to take home with them. Each session is free but you must pre-register for each of the eight events between September and June. For more information, visit www.

sookewestshoreliteracy.com/westshore, email booksforbreakfast@shaw.ca, or call 250-474-6678. This program is an initiative of the Belmont Park Preschool.

Children’s Services Registration Session Be the first in line to register your child for the 2019-20 Preschool year and/or the Summer Fun Program for 3-5 year olds. Space is limited. Parents must bring the following information to complete the registration form: name and phone number of doctor and dentist, medical card, emergency contact names and phone numbers, current immunization record, names of current medications, if applicable.

Location: CPAC Wed May 8

3-4:30pm

Registration Call 250-363-2640 (toll free: 1-800-353-3320) to register for all MFRC programs, unless otherwise noted.

Comfort, Play & Teach This six week program, created by Invest in Kids, offers great handson experiences for parents and their children. You will learn new songs, activities and crafts you can do with your child. Parent participation is required along with your child. Program is facilitated by an Early Childhood Educator.

For parents and their children up to 18 months Returning in September of 2019 For parents and their children 18 months to 3 years Location: CPAC Thur Jan 24-Feb 28 10-11am

Family FUNdamentals - Healthy Living Through Fun Unique Nurturing Family Activities This is an interactive program for parents and children ages 3 or 4 years. Join us for games, songs, stories, snacks and activities. Through this program, you and your child will learn about selfimage, healthy relationships, eating well, the importance of play and physical activity, and social and emotional well-being. Program is facilitated by an Early Childhood Educator. Please note: maximum 2 children per adult participating in program.

Location: CPAC Mon Mar 11-Apr 8

9:30-11am

Playing Together A drop-in program for parents and their children age 18 months to 5 years.

Come socialize and network with other military families! The children move freely between three to four activities in this fun, open-ended play experience. No

registration required, just drop-in.

Location: CPAC Wed Jan 9-June 19

9-10:30am

Summer Fun for 3 to 5 Year Olds Welcome to a fun-filled summer! Keep your child active and engaged with our specialized summer sessions! These 2.5 hour theme sessions require a snack, drink, sunscreen, and a heart open to having fun! Register online at www. esquimaltmfrc.com/event/summer-fun.

Returns for July and August. Registration opens in May.

RESOURCES AND SERVICES Casual Child Care Parents need a break! Try Casual Child Care for a few hours of respite or to get things done without your “little helper.�

Take the time to de-stress yourself!

Book up to 1 week in advance, maximum 2 times per week. Punch cards are available! Please pay the front desk at the CPAC MFRC prior to entering program.

Ages 6-18 months

Location: CPAC Tues-Fri 9am-noon Gradual entry required for new children $15 per 3-hour session Call 250-363-2674 to book Ages 18 months-5 years Location: CPAC Tues & Thur 9am-noon or 1-4pm Fri 9am-noon $12 per 3-hour session Call 250-363-2674 to book *If you are experiencing a deployment, be sure to check out the Saturday Casual Child Care sessions.

Casual Child Care Punch Cards Casual Child Care Punch Cards are available! Save a few dollars when you buy a $65 card good for 6 sessions of child care. Cards are available at the MFRC and are available for children over 18 months of age.

Imagination Library Funded by donations, this program enhances literacy and develops resilience in children as they experience the challenges of the military lifestyle.

Families with babies born within the last 12 months to serving regular force members and class B/C reservists at CFB Esquimalt are eligible to register.

Children will receive one book per month by mail until their fifth birthday. Please contact the MFRC for more information.

MFRC Daycare Every day is an adventure in learning at the MFRC Daycare – where imagination, fun and experiencing are always at the top of the agenda! Join us at our Colwood (CPAC) Daycare. Our bright facility offers both an infant/toddler and a 3 to 5 year old program. Sign up on our waitlist at www.esquimaltmfrc.com/ mfrc-daycare. We offer quality care with an understanding of the military family lifestyle.

Parenting from Afar Stay connected with your child during deployment. Look for activities and tips in Raising Your Military Child on the MFRC website (www.esquimaltmfrc. com). You can also pick up Children’s Deployment Workbooks and a Parent Guide at any MFRC location, and the Parenting from Afar booklet.

Preschool The MFRC’s ECE certified Educators provide fun and creative opportunities for your child! Classes are available at the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre. Please call to inquire about our 2 or 3 day a week classes that can help your child to learn through play. Some spaces may still be available. All 2018-19 classes have a maximum of 10 students. Parent participation is required for field trips.

3-4 year olds Mon & Wed 9-11:30am $1,250 for the academic year, payable $125 per month 4-5 year olds Mon, Wed & Fri 1-3:30pm $1,500 for the academic year, payable $150 per month

“Welcoming Your Baby” Box Expectant military parents can receive a free “Welcoming Your Baby” box from the Military Family Resource Centre.

Each box comes with a mattress and the box can be used as a bed for use by newborns. You will also receive samples of diapers, wipes, and other freebies. The MFRC has included a developmental toy, tips on parenting in the military lifestyle, an emergency child care plan, and information on programs, activities,

breastfeeding and safe sleeping. Visit www.esquimaltmfrc.com/welcomingbaby-box for the registration process.

School Age

Out of School Care Located in Belmont Park in Colwood, the MFRC provides Before and After School Care for children from Kindergarten to Grade 6. Drop-off and pick-up is available at École John Stubbs Elementary School. Children attending Crystal View Elementary or Victor Brodeur can also attend, if bus arrangements have been made. The program runs 6:30am to 5:30pm during school days. Space may still be available for the 2018-19 school year or we are taking names for our waitlist. Register online at www.esquimaltmfrc.com/outof-school-care.

Registration Call 250-363-2640 (toll free: 1-800-353-3320) to register for all MFRC programs, unless otherwise noted.

Parental Education Kids Have Stress Too This interactive workshop focuses on the important role of parents and caregivers in helping young children learn to manage stress. The child’s ability to cope with stress in the early years has consequences for physical and emotional health throughout life.

This workshop offers practical tools for recognizing stress and supporting children to build resilience. Please register by February 22.

Location: CPAC Thur Feb 28

6:30-8:30pm

Francophone Cafés francophones Le Centre de ressources pour les familles militaires souhaite vous inviter à ses cafés francophones. Nous souhaitons vous offrir la possibilité de rencontrer d’autres francophones de la communauté militaire et en apprendre davantage sur les services offerts en français dans le Grand Victoria. Ces rencontres seront tenus bimensuellement, au CRFM Colwood (2610 Rosebank Road - CPAC). Pour connaître les dates et vous inscrire, composez le 250-363-2640 (sans frais : 1-800-353-3329).

Cours de langue seconde Aimerez-vous apprendre l’anglais?

Sentez-vous le besoin d’améliorer votre anglais pour mieux communiquer avec votre partenaire? Le CRFM offre des cours aux membres adultes de la famille des FAC. Les classes, dispensées par un professionnel, intègrent la conversation, la culture, la grammaire et l’écriture pour faciliter votre intégration dans votre communauté. Pour vous inscrire, composez le 250 363-2640 (sans frais : 1 800 353-3329).

Anglais débutant Lieu : Église St. Peters, Belmont Park lundis, mardi et jeudis 7 janvier au 28 mars 9h00 à 11h30

Lieu : Église St. Peters, Belmont Park lundis, mardi et jeudis 8 avril au 20 juin 9h00 à 11h30 Anglais intermédiaire/avancé Lieu : Église St. Peters, Belmont Park lundis, mardi et jeudis 7 janvier au 28 mars 13h00 à 15h30 Lieu : Église St. Peters, Belmont Park lundis, mardi et jeudis 8 avril au 20 juin 13h00 à 15h30

Centre d’accueil et de services à l’emploi Financés par le ministère provincial Social Development, les services du centre d’emploi de la Société francophone de Victoria vous sont offerts sans frais. Une équipe de conseillers bilingues et une agente de développement à l’emploi sont sur place pour vous assister et vous soutenir tout au long de votre processus de recherche d’emploi. Pour information, contactez le 250-388-7350 ou visitez le www. francocentre.com.

Events Lil’ Sweetheart Dance The most anticipated and popular party of the year! A super fun event geared for families of the Defence Community who want to have fun and spend some quality time together. Dancing, great music, prizes, a photo booth and light refreshments…what more could you ask for? Create memories that will last a lifetime! Get your tickets online at www. esquimaltmfrc.com in January.

Location: Chief and Petty Officers’ Mess Sat Mar 2 6-9pm $35 per adult, kids attend for free

Military Family Appreciation Night The Victoria Grizzlies are having a special night to celebrate military members and their families. Discounted tickets will be available for military members, families and supporters of the military community. Be sure to come early for a special tail gate party starting at 5:30pm with food and special displays.

Location: The Q Centre (1767 Island Highway, Colwood) Fri Jan 25 7-9:30pm

Multi Family Garage Sale Make some extra money from your unwanted items at a huge multi-family garage sale. Let the MFRC do the advertising for you. Purchase your tables at www.esquimaltmfrc.com! Get one table for $15 or two tables for $25. After

May 10, tables cost $20 each. Reserve your table early as we sell out each year!

Note that tables are not available for purchase on the day of the event.

Location: CPAC Sun May 26 8:30am–2pm $15 for one table or $25 for two tables until May 10, $20 per table after May 10

Pacific Women’s Day The MFRC’s annual women’s conference lets military members, military spouses/ partners and DND civilians take a day for themselves. Participants engage in workshops and activities geared at relaxing the body and re-energizing the mind and spirit. Come make connections with your community at the world famous Hatley Castle! Tickets on sale in September. Visit www.esquimaltmfrc. com/pwd for registration information.

Returning in November of 2019

West Coast Welcome If you are new to the area or want to learn what’s new at the MFRC, you are invited to an open house at our Colwood location. Join us for a catered lunch, live music and crafts for the children. Come out and meet new people and learn more about the resources in the military community. A popular, free event!

Returning in September of 2019

Facilities Colwood Pacific Activity Centre MFRC 2610 Rosebank Road, Colwood

Monday – Tuesday...................7:30am – 6pm Wednesday................................7:30am – 9pm Thursday-Friday........................7:30am – 6pm Saturday......................................8:30am – 12:30pm Closed weekdays for lunch between 11am-noon Closed Wednesdays for dinner between 5:45-6:45pm Closed Sundays and statutory holidays CPAC MFRC closes Wednesday at 6pm during July and August

MFRC Out of School Care 720 Galiano Crescent, Belmont Park, Colwood

Formerly called the Youth Activity Centre (YAC), this facility is home to our Out-of-School Care and a five minute drive from the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre (CPAC). Please visit CPAC for all of your walk-in requests.

Signal Hill MFRC

1505 Esquimalt Road, Esquimalt (closest location to Dockyard) Monday – Friday........................8:30am – 4:30pm Closed daily for lunch from Noon-1pm Closed on statutory holidays

Contact Us

250-363-2640 /esquimaltmfrc 1-800-353-3329 esquimaltmfrc.com @esquimaltmfrc