Deployment Tool Kit
TMFRC's Deployment Tool Kit provides information and resources intended to support families and friends of CAF members during a member's deployment.
The name or title of each resource is a clickable link that will take you to more information about that resource.
We plan to update this tool kit regularly, so check back for new information. We encourage families to reach out to us to learn more about the unique programs and services being offered by or referred to by the MFRC.
If we do not provide the type of service that you are looking for, we will help you to navigate the services and supports available in your community.
Please be in touch with us today!
Who is Family?
Anyone a CAF member considers family, so do we at Toronto MFRC. The MFRC definition of family is not limited to a spouse and children, but is extended to include anyone of significance to the CAF member. For example: parents, siblings, common law partner, boyfriend/girlfriend.
Where in the world?
Where in the world are the Canadian Armed Forces and what are they doing there?
Follow this link to Canadian Armed Forces Current Operations List to learn about current CAF Operations.
Getting ready for deployment
Toronto MFRC provides one-on-one support in person or through email, telephone or Zoom; peer support services; deployment information sessions; community service navigation; and morale mail services for families who have a member absent due to tasking, training or deployment.
Tip Sheet: Getting Ready for an Absence as a Couple
Preparing for Deployment Stress - Guiding you through the stages of deployment.
Emotional Cycle of Deployment - Learn about what to expect and how to navigate emotions as you prepare for deployment.
Op Readiness Workbook - A planning tool for the CAF member and/or their family in preparation for a CAF work related absence or deployment. Link opens document in Microsoft Word format. If you would like to receive a paper copy, please email us at info@torontomfrc.ca and we will send you a copy.
Op Readiness Workbook for Parents of CAF Members - COMING SOON!!
Support during deployment
Tip Sheet: Supporting CAF Members and Families Facing and Absence
Emotional Cycle of Deployment - Learn about what to expect and strategies to cope through a deployment.
R2MR - Road to Mental Readiness for Military Families
FIL - Family Information Line: 1-800-866-4546 - Confidential, personal, bilingual service, offering information, support, referrals, reassurance and crisis management to the military community.
Deployment Support Facebook Group - Connect with other family members of deployed CAF members.
Parents of CAF Members - Support to Parents Facebook group, providing Information and supports for parents of new Recruits, information about Basic Training, Frequently Asked Questions, and connection with other families through shared experiences.
Resources for children and youth
Storybooks for Children - These free, downloadable story books support children who are separated from a parent.
Sesame Street for Military Families - Our friends at Sesame Street help little ones understand the challenges associated with the military lifestyle including self expression, family health and wellness, relocation, deployments, homecomings, injuries and grief.
CAF Kids: Text CAFKIDS to 686868 - Crisis Texting Service for Kids of CAF Families. Kids Help Phone provides this confidential service for kids who might be struggling with relocation, separation, relationships, anxiety/stress, depression, self/harm, suicide, isolation, grief.
A Letter for My Child's Teacher - This is a letter that military families can download and share with your child's teacher when a parent is deploying. This letter provides a brief intro to the military community in the GTA, explains what a family may experience during deployment and offers tips and resources for supporting students during a family member's absence.
Morale Mail
CAF Morale Mail is an internal Department of National Defence (DND) program providing an alternative one-way mail service to deployed soldiers from their families and friends.
The service is provided at no cost to the sender, however the items are not trackable, nor are timelines for delivery guaranteed.
Follow the link below for information about eligible operations/locations, permitted/restricted items, size/weight restrictions, and guidance on how to address your package.
DND Instructions for Mailing Overseas
Visit our YouTube channel to view our short video detailing all you need to know about preparing morale mail for a deployed CAF member.
Visit Toronto MFRC to complete your customs declaration form and drop off your parcel for free shipping to eligible operations/locations.
Reunion
Tip Sheet: Preparing for a Reunion as a Couple
Emotional Cycle of Deployment - Learn about what to expect and how to navigate your family member's return.
Family Battle Box
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