Veteran Family Program
Medically releasing from the military is a big change for you and your family. A Veteran Family Program coordinator can help you identify your family’s needs and help you plan a successful transition.
About this program
The Veteran Family Program offers medically-releasing CAF members and their families continued access to the Military Family Resource Centres and to a suite of transition-support programs and services, which include:
- the Family Information Line
- a suite of transition programs, courses and group sessions including a mental health first aid course, couples overcoming PTSD everyday (COPE), Operational Stress Injury Resource for Caregivers, and Shifting Gears
- resources and tools such as personalized access to a Veteran Family Program coordinator and the Veteran Family Journal
When it comes to transition, every path is different. The first step is choosing a direction. To help with that, the program coordinator will help you develop your family’s 'care plan'. This plan will identify the right programs and services for your needs such as local resources, transition programs, referrals or intervention support.
Do you qualify?
You qualify if you are:
- a medically-releasing CAF member
- a medically-released Veteran
- a family member of a medically-released Veteran
- a bereaved family member of a medically-releasing or medically-released Veteran
How to apply
There is no application form for the Veteran Family Program.
- Visit your local Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) and ask for the Veteran Family Program Coordinator. You and your family can walk in any time. You don’t need an appointment.
- You can also call the Family Information Line at 1-800-866-4546 or email FIL@CAFconnection.ca
Additional information
Find out more
To help build your family care plan, the Veteran Family Journal is available online.
Visit cafconnection.ca to learn more about all of the courses available through the Veteran Family Program including the OSI resource for caregivers and mental health first aid.
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Veteran Family Program.
Related programs
Veteran Family Telemedicine Service – Talk to a doctor online within minutes. Medically-released Veterans and their families can access the Veteran Family Telemedicine Service to virtually connect to a national network of Canadian-licensed doctors, nurse practitioners, and healthcare providers.
Who can apply: Veterans and their families have one year from their medical release date to sign up. Survivors of deceased Canadian Armed Forces members also have access to this service.
Registration: Once your eligibility is verified, you can register to activate the one-year telemedicine license.
Family Information Line - The 24/7 Family Information Line is a confidential, bilingual service provided by the Canadian Armed Forces that offers information, support, referrals and crisis management. Trained counsellors can help you and your family with a variety of national and local services and provide guidance and resources to various service providers who support the military community. Call 1-800-866-4546 or email: FIL@CAFconnection.ca.
Transition interview – Schedule a transition interview to learn about VAC programs and services you may need in your post-service life.
Frequently asked questions
What are Military Family Resource Centres?
Located on Canadian Armed Forces Bases and Wings, local Military Family Resource Centres (MFRCs) are the hub of military communities. MFRCs promote and facilitate community-based services and programs to enhance the well-being of military families.
Services include:
- transition programs,
- referral services,
- healthy living programs, and
- advocacy.
Is there a time limit to access the Veteran Family Program?
There is no time limit for Veterans who medically-released and their families.
View all questions and answers related to the Veteran Family Program.