Outreach, Information, Support and Assistance
In order to help spouses get through a prolonged absence, the Moose Jaw Military Family Resource Centre has implemented a support program during a deployment that answers your specific needs. Deployment support is provided to CF members, Reservists and their families who are called to unaccompanied tours of duty, Temporary Duty (TD) or an extended course for periods of greater than thirty days. The service provides their families with ongoing mental, emotional and physical support to assist them with the many challenges faced by families of deployed members. The service is offered before, during and after the tour/course. The following services and activities are there to help:
- Written information
- Deployment Workshop
- "Staying in touch" Line
- Internet
- Special activities
- Mission Information Line
- Member Assistance Program
- Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS)
Written information:
A booklet entitled “Preparing for Deployment Stress” as well as an information package is given to everyone going through a deployment period.
Deployment Workshop:
Workshops are offered to the adults and children who wish to receive thorough information on the deployment. These workshops enable you to speak about what you lived before, during and after a deployment.
"Staying in touch" Line:
This service offers regular support phone calls to every spouse for the duration of the deployment. This service is offered on request and can be provided weekly, bi-monthly or monthly.
Internet:
In order to better serve you, the MFRC offers free access to the Internet. This service is offered Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. (Please note that an adult must accompany individuals under the age of eighteen.)
Special activities:
These activities are organised regularly throughout the deployment. The activities can be: information sessions, thematic meetings, social events, etc. The purpose of these activities is to encourage sharing of experiences and meeting people.
Mission Information Line:
1-800-866-4546
The MIL is a toll free number for families of deployed Canadian Military Personnel. If you wish to speak to a counselor the line is available from 8:00 am to midnight EST, Monday to Friday with the exception of statutory holidays. Automated messages are available 24 hours a day. Services are confidential.
Member Assistance Program:
1-800-268-7708
If your military spouse is presently deployed and you have not been contacted, do not hesitate to phone them so that you may receive the services you are entitled to. They are there for you!
Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS):
OSISS offers information and support for Military Members and Veterans who have served, and their friends and families.
Contact Peer Support Coordinator for Saskatchewan Janet Bennett at 306-975-6147 or Christine Howell, Family Peer Support Coordinator at 204-765-3000 ext: 4031
Please visit the website for more information OSISS
Don’t hesitate to seek out information about the services available for military families.