Welcome to the National Capital Region (NCR)
Welcome From Your Senior Manager
Welcome to the National Capital Region!
It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the National Capital Region (NCR). Whether this is your first time, return of many, or final posting location, the NCR is your place to call home. We recognize the NCR is uniquely different from any other posting you may have experienced within Canada; due to its vast geographical boundaries that includes the cities of Ottawa and Gatineau, within the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. We acknowledge postings to new or revisited locations can be a challenge in feeling connected and supported. Anytime along your stay in the NCR, the wellversed team at MFS NCR is here for you, simply reach out.
As you settle and thrive in your new community, we challenge you to explore, connect and share with us your experiences, so that we can continue to evolve and meet the unique needs of CAF families in the NCR. From Downtown Ottawa with the Cityscape, to embracing the beauty of Gatineau Park in the fall and experiencing the iconic Rideau Canal, we look forward to hearing about your journey!
On behalf of myself and the team at MFS NCR, we welcome you!
Brieanne, Senior Manager, Military Family Services NCR
The Posting Cycle
Prepare
There are a lot of plans and actions in this phase: your HHT, preparing to sell/move, travel plans, etc; in addition to the overall stress and its impact on one’s emotional and social well-being.
Move
Arrive
You’re on the ground now in your new location and managing the Unload and Unpack. Much of this phase involves tackling the MUST do’s and exploring your new community.
Settle
The logistics of physically moving to your new home and the reality of travelling to a new location. These transitions can be both adventurous and stressful. Your new community is more familiar. The logistics of the move have mostly or fully concluded, and you find new routines and familiarity. At times, things still feel new and uncertain, but more and more, you are feeling settled.
Thrive
Connect
Life starts to “happen” in your new location and navigation of your community. You are finding your way and looking to connect to pertinent resources, social networks and supports for you and your family.
This is YOUR community, and your family are active members of that community in the way that it suits your journey and circumstances.
Moving Tips / Reminders First Move
Familiarize yourself with the updated Relocation Directives and SIRVA regulations and follow the recommended checklists/procedures.
Recognize that stress and anxiety are normal reactions during this transition.
Create a Moving Binder (physical or virtual) for all relevant contacts, documents, receipts, etc to be easily accessible at all times.
Make contact and book all services as early as possible to reduce reactive decision making, such as a financial planner, realtors and accommodations (origin & destination), pet care, etc.
Scan the QR code to find the MFS Moving Guidebook and Checklists cfmwsca/support-services/movinghousing/guide-to-relocating
Footer contains location & section name so that any page can be seen on its own
Moving Tips / Reminders
One of Many Moves
Look back on your previous homes and come up with your top 3 priorities for your next home.
Start your decluttering process soon after getting word of a potential posting message.
Find some fun activities to do on the downtimes during your HHT.
Scan the QR code to find the MFS Moving Guidebook and Checklists cfmwsca/support-services/movinghousing/guide-to-relocating
Footer contains location & section name so that any page can be seen on its own
Moving Tips / Reminders
Final Move
As you approach this next stage in your journey, consider consulting a financial planner who can help identify ways to meet your new financial obligations and lifestyle.
Be familiar with the resources available to you through VAC and MFS NCR as you transition out of the military with your local Transition Centre/Veteran Family Program Coordinator.
Take the time to actively reconnect as a family unit and make new memories.
Scan the QR code to find the MFS Moving Guidebook and Checklists cfmws.ca/support-services/movinghousing/guide-to-relocating
Footer contains location & section name so that any page can be seen on its own
Ontario - SNAPSHOTS
Transportation
Ministry of Transportation
OC Transpo (Bus & O-Train)
Ottawa Transit App
Securing a doctor is challenging due to physician shortages throughout the province.
Options: Calian
Military Family Virtual Healthcare Program (MFVHP) Provincial waitlist info
Tip: Once you have secured an address, register on a waitlist immediately.
Visit our relocation page for further information by scanning the QR code cfmwsca/mfsncr/relocation
Housing
Ottawa housing prices are higher but have lower income taxes.
*Source 1, 2 CFHA / PSP Housing
Québec - SNAPSHOTS
Transportation
Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec
Société de transport de l’Outaouais Transit App
Visit our relocation page for further information by scanning the QR code cfmws.ca/mfsncr/relocation
Securing a doctor is challenging due to physician shortages throughout the province.
Options:
Primary Care Access Point
Military Family Virtual Healthcare Program (MFVHP) Provincial waitlist info
Tip: You will need a valid RAMQ health card before you can register on the Québec Family Doctor Finder (GAMF) waiting list.
Housing
Housing and rent are lower, but there are higher income taxes.
*Source 1, 2
Ontario Education
Québec
Elementary & Secondary Boards
Ottawa Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB)
Conseils des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO)
Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE)
Commission scolaire Western Québec School Board
Commission scolaire des Draveurs (French only)
Commission scolaire des Portagesde-l’Outaouais (French only)
Commission scolaire des HautsBois-de-l’Outaouais (French only)
Post-Secondary Schools
University of Ottawa
Carleton University
La Cité Algonquin College
* Check each school board for French Immersion and extended French programs options.
Université du Québec en Outaouais
Université nationale autonome du Mexique
Cégep Héritage College
* Information about eligibility to English education in Québec can be found here.
MFS NCR Services
Contact us as you explore your options for both the Ottawa and Gatineau area so that you can make an informed decision as to what works best for your family.
Information & resources: Frequently Asked Questions
Creating an Emergency Child Plan
Choosing Child Care in Ottawa and Gatineau
Other Considerations
For more child care navigation information, scan the QR code cfmwsca/mfsncr/childcare
MFS NCR Services
Every family situation is unique. We are here to listen and assist with navigating the available resources and making connections relevant to your family’s needs.
Scan the QR code to see how we can help you and your family navigate your journey cfmws.ca/mfsncr/family-navigation
Sensory Lending Library
Families can sign out and try a variety of assistive devices for both adults and children on a first come, first served basis.
MFS NCR Services
Deployment Support
Work-related absences can happen at any time and may include deployments, Imposed Restriction (IR), Temporary Duty (TD), extended courses, training and exercises amongst any other tasks.
Contact our Deployment Team to see how we can support you and your family during this transition.
Scan the QR code for more information about our deployment services cfmws.ca/mfsncr/deployment
MFS NCR Services
Veteran Family Resources
The transition from military to civilian lifestyle is unique to each member. Navigating this journey with our Veteran Family Program Coordinator will hopefully provide you and your family a softer landing as you settle into your life.
Resources
Veteran Family Program
Resources for Families
Family Information Line: 1-800-866-4546
Transition Centre Ottawa: 343-451-5124
OSISS - Family Peer Support
24/7 Veterans Affairs Canada Assistance Line: 1-800-2687708
Resume Support: Translating your military skills to civilian equivalencies
My VAC Account
Veteran Family Telemedicine Service via Maple
Partner Organizations
Veterans Affairs Canada
SISIP
Wounded Warriors Canada
Soldier On
Support Our Troops
Opening Minds - Mental Health
Commission of Canada
MFS NCR Services
MFS / MFS NCR Resources City Resources Employment Support
Employment Resources
Career Development and Virtual Workshops
Military Spousal Employment Network
Military Spouse Employment Initiative Centre Local d’Emploi (Québec) Employment Ontario GOC Job Bank Find an Employment Centre
Second Language Resources
Please contact the Second Language Coordinator for inquiries and program details.
Language Research Development Group (LRDG) - Second language training for English and French is available for self-directed learning. A CFOne card is required for registration.
Tips for Practicing an Additional Language
Rosetta Stone - Available for CAF family members moving to a community where the local language is other than English and French.
*Our second language programs prioritize adult military family members.*
Mental Health & Wellness
Main Hospitals
Ottawa Hospital (General, Riverside, Civic campuses)
Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)
Queensway-Carleton Hospital
Montfort Hospital
Hôpital de Gatineau
Hôpital de Hull
Hôpital de Papineau
Relocating can be overwhelming. If you need someone to talk to during this time, our mental health team is here for you and your family to support your journey.
MFS NCR Mental Health Email: mfsncr-mentalhealth@cfmws.com
Read our “Adapting to Your New Reality“ article here.
Resources
*Please see our Resources in the NCR for further supports.* Scan the QR code for more Resources cfmwsca/mfsncr/mentalhealth
Walk-in Counselling Services (Ottawa): Map View Search The Walk-In Counselling Clinic (Ottawa) Counselling Connect - Phone/Video (Ottawa)
Ontario
City Resources
City of Ottawa website
Non-urgent line for services: 3-1-1
Garbage and Recycling
Ministry of Transportation
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
Québec
Ville de Gatineau website
Non-urgent line for services: 3-1-1
Garbage and Recycling
Société de l’assurance automobile du
Québec
Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec
Emergency Pet Care
Alta Vista Animal Hospital
Ottawa Animal Emergency & Specialty
Hospital
Eagleson Veterinary Clinic
Capital City Specialty & Emergency
Animal Hospital
*Please call the hospital for any change of operation*
City Apps
City of Ottawa (Apple)
City of Ottawa (Android)
Ottawa Collection Calendar
OPL (Ottawa Public Library) Mobile
Ditritus (Ville de Gatineau)
In an Emergency, call: 9-1-1
(For Ambulance, Fire, Police)
Emergency Preparedness
Always have a “go bag” ready in a convenient location with enough emergency supplies for everyone, including your pets for at least 72 hours.
Contact your local community office to find the closest designated emergency shelter to you. Visit City of Ottawa or Ville de Gatineau for more specific resources and information to your location.
Volunteer with MFS NCR
Benefits of Volunteering
Enhances overall wellness
Boosts fulfillment and purpose
Fosters community connections
Encourages learning
Increases physical movement
Improves self-confidence
Supports skills and experience development
Scan the QR code to find out more about how you can volunteer in the NCR cfmwsca/mfsncr/volunteer
Volunteers take the time to make a difference.
No matter if you’re looking for a place to complete your volunteer hours or to make new connections with like-minded people, contact our Volunteer Program Specialist to see what opportunities are right for you.
Find NCR’s
Visit the Tulip Festival
e.g. Parc Omega, Saunders Country Zoo, Calypso, Mont Cascades
eg Beavertail, tourtière, maple butter
Attend a Sporting Event
Fury, BlackJacks, Titans, Red Blacks, 67s, PWHL, Senators
e.g.UpperCanada Village,Perth, MontTremblant, Chelsea
Shar adve with frien
Your CAF Community
MFS NCR Contacts
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri, 0800-1600
Phone: 613-998-4888
Main Office: Uplands Military Community Centre, 330 Croil Private, Bldg 471, Ottawa, ON, K1V 1J1
General: mfsncr@cfmws.com
Mental Health: mfsncr-mentalhealth@cfmws.com
Our Services
Relocation: Relocation Team
Deployment: Deployment Team
Veteran Family Services: VFP Coordinator
Volunteer with us!
Community Partners
Personnel Support Programs (PSP)
PSP Health Promotion
PSP Housing
PSP Recreation Programs
SISIP Financial
CANEX Online Shop
Royal Canadian Legion
Connect
Resources in the NCR
Emergency Assistance (Ambulance, Fire, Police) 9-1-1
Non-Emergency (Police) 1-888-310-1122
Duty Padre 613-596-0124
Family Information Line 1-800-866-4546
Canadian Forces Military Assistance Program (CFMAP) 1-800-268-7708
Distress Centre Ottawa 613-238-3311
Tel-Aide Outaouais (24/7) 613-741-6433
Mental Health Crisis Line 1-866-996-0991
Kids Help Phone (Phone Service) 1-800-668-6868
Kids Help Phone (Texting Service) 686868
Info Santé | Info Social (Quebec) 24/7 Non-Urgent
--> [Health, Key 1; Psychosocial, Key 2] 8-1-1
City of Ottawa Services (non-urgent)
Ville de Gatineau (non-urgent)
Ontario Social Services and Programs
Quebec Social Services and Programs
Health811 (Ontario) 24/7 Non-Urgent