January 2025

News

2024 Canadian Veteran Health Survey

Statistics Canada is conducting a health survey for us. The 2024 Canadian Veteran Health Survey looks at the well-being of Canadian Veterans, how their well-being compares across the Veteran population and to other Canadians, and how their health outcomes change over time.

The survey will lead to better service for you and your families by giving us the vital information we need to develop and improve policies and programs. It also allows us to identify areas where Veterans and specific groups within the Veteran population may be struggling with their health.

An invitation to participate in the survey will be sent by mail to randomly selected Veterans who reported on the 2021 Census that they served in the Canadian Armed Forces. The survey is completely voluntary and confidential. Visit Statistics Canada for more information about the Canadian Veteran Health Survey.

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Culturally safe mental wellness supports for Indigenous Veterans

Indigenous people have a long and proud tradition of military service to Canada. Historically, however, Indigenous Veterans did not always receive the same benefits, honours or respect as other Canadian Veterans. The discrimination that Indigenous Veterans faced is wrong, and we are committed to doing better.

We are working with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to increase awareness of the mental wellness services they have for Indigenous Veterans and their families. When you contact us and identify as an Indigenous Veteran, you can now choose to be connected with ISC for culturally safe mental wellness supports in addition to the benefits and services we provide.

If you’d like to tell us about your experience using ISC cultural supports through VAC, please reach out to our Indigenous Veterans Engagement team by email. Your feedback is vital as we work to improve how we serve you.

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Calling all Veterans of the Second World War who served in the Netherlands

You could join the Government of Canada’s delegation to commemorate the 80^th anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands and Victory in Europe (V-E) Day this May.

This is a rare opportunity to honour your service, reflect on history and reconnect with this key chapter of your life. Do you know a Veteran who might qualify? Please let them know so they don’t miss out on this opportunity. For more information, please email us by 31 January 2025.

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Veteran supporters named to the Order of Canada

Congratulations to these Veterans and Veteran supporters, who were recently appointed to the Order of Canada by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada.

Officer

General Walter John Natynczyk, O.C., C.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. (retired)

A pillar in our society, Walter Natynczyk is a retired Canadian Army general and former chief of the Defence Staff. He led numerous command positions, including peacekeeping missions around the globe. He is esteemed as a former President of the Canadian Space Agency and Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada.

Members

Diane Marie Pitre, C.M.

Canadian Armed Forces Veteran Diane Pitre fought for reparations for those wronged by the LGBT Purge, including herself, for decades. She continues to advocate on behalf of Purge survivors and for 2SLGBTQI+ rights in the military. Notably, she co-founded Rainbow Veterans of Canada, which champions 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans.

Mark Zuehlke, C.M.

Mark Zuehlke is Canada's leading writer of popular military history. A former journalist and celebrated author, he has distinguished himself through his Canadian Battle Series, which has greatly enhanced our understanding of Canada's military contributions, particularly during the Second World War. His award-winning Elias McCann mystery series set in Tofino has entertained audiences nationwide.

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Release of Veterans Affairs Canada 2024 Accessibility Progress Report

We released our 2024 Accessibility Progress Report in December. The report shows our progress since the Accessibility Action Plan 2022-2025 was implemented. This plan laid out how we would improve accessibility, by identifying barriers to things like our buildings, programs and services and even communications and information technologies. The plan also identifies ways to prevent and remove them.

The next Accessibility Action Plan will be published in December 2025 and it will provide updates as we continue the journey to make VAC more accessible for everyone.

Visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website to read the Accessibility Action Plan and Progress Reports. You can also provide feedback and request alternate formats.

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Engagement

The Invictus Games are coming to Vancouver and Whistler in February

Canada will soon host 535 Veterans and service members from 23 countries, alongside Canadian Veterans, Armed Forces members and their families in Vancouver and Whistler. And you can take in all the action at the Invictus Games, February 8-16.

At the Vancouver Invictus Village pavilion, the CAF Around the World exhibit commemorates Canada’s military missions throughout history. The exhibit is presented entirely by Veterans, giving visitors an authentic perspective on our country’s military legacy. A Canadian Veteran delegation will also bring Canadian Indigenous Veterans together to take part in cultural exchanges with the Four Host First Nations, youth and Indigenous Veterans from other nations.

You can cheer on Team Canada in person if you’re in BC, or by watching online. You can also take part by joining the “I AM” movement on social media. Draw inspiration from the Team Canada members, and find out more on the Invictus 2025 website. Learn more about Team Canada competitors—past and present—on the VAC website or on our social media channels.

Go Team Canada!

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Programs and services

Share your experiences with cannabis and PTSD in a research study

Scientists from the University of Ottawa are working with Veterans and the Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families to better understand how cannabis can help Veterans manage the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or an operational stress injury (OSI).

This research also examines how cannabis affects areas of health such as sleep and chronic pain.

You can be part of this research by doing an online survey. To take part you must be:

• a Canadian resident,
• a Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, and
• have been living with PTSD or an OSI at any time since March 2020 (even if your symptoms are gone)

You do not need to use cannabis to take part. This research compares Veterans who use cannabis with those who don’t. Both perspectives are welcome.

Visit the study webpage for more information about the survey and to learn about compensation for your time. Explore supports for PTSD or OSIs, by calling us at 1-866-522-2122. For immediate psychological support, call 1-800-268-7708 to speak to a mental health professional.

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LifeSpeak expert blog – taking control of seasonal blues

Seasonal depression, often brought on by winter’s limited daylight, can leave us feeling low on energy, unmotivated, and disconnected. This mood shift—once called seasonal affective disorder—is now recognized as a type of major depressive disorder. Symptoms include sadness, decreased interest in activities, low energy, sleep and appetite changes, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. These challenges often peak during darker months, but there’s good news: taking action can make a real difference.

Strategies for managing the “winter blues” include making the most of natural light and using tools like light therapy to counteract shorter days. Staying active, both mentally and physically, is another powerful way to shift your mood. Whether it’s looking into new hobbies, planning a future vacation or committing to outdoor activities, even small steps can spark positive changes.

Feeling better starts with a commitment to yourself. If you would like more ideas, check out the expert blog, Taking control of seasonal blues, to discover ways to brighten your winter days and reclaim your energy. Take that first step today. LifeSpeak resources are provided as part of the VAC Assistance Service. Log in to LifeSpeak from any computer or mobile device (use Access ID: canada).

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PTSD Coach Canada app awarded badge of quality

The Mental Health Commission of Canada, as part of their overall effort to build confidence in digital mental health tools that support Canadians’ mental health and well-being, has given the PTSD Coach Canada app a badge of approval for meeting high standards of quality.

PTSD Coach Canada is a mobile app for learning about and managing the symptoms that can occur after trauma, including those associated with posttraumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.

The app is available to anyone. It was developed to support CAF/RCMP personnel and Veterans, as well as their family and friends. It includes:

• Reliable and current information on PTSD and effective treatments
• Convenient, easy-to-use tools including a self-assessment and exercises to help with the management of distress associated with PTSD symptoms
• A self-guided safety plan for suicide prevention
• Information on crisis support and how to get help

Download the latest version for Android or iOS. If you don’t have a smartphone, no problem; you can find the educational content of PTSD Coach Canada on our website.

The PTSD Coach Canada app can support discussions with your mental health provider. It is not intended to replace professional care. It’s important to see a professional if you are experiencing PTSD symptoms. If you need immediate mental health support, call the VAC Assistance Service toll‑free: 1‑800‑268‑7708 or TDD/TTY: 1‑800‑567‑5803. The VAC Assistance Service is available at all times. You do not need to be a VAC client to use the service.

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Men’s Coffee Chats: A new peer support opportunity

The Peer Support Program is hosting a series of Men’s Coffee Chats in March 2025 to help reduce the stigma and isolation associated with military sexual trauma. These virtual discussions will offer men a safer space to connect, share and talk about their experiences.

Men’s Coffee Chats are 75-minutes long and available in English or French. Discussions will be driven by the needs and interests of the group, which can include themes, such as:

• the effects of trauma related to masculinity
• healing
• well-being after trauma and ways to cope

You can register for as many chats as you like by emailing Peer Support Program or calling 1‑844‑750‑1648. You can also visit the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre's (SMSRC) website for more information. Please register by February 28 for as many chats as you like.

English discussions:

• March 10, 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. EST
• March 19, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST
• March 24, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST

French discussions:

• March 12, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST
• March 17, 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. EST
• March 26, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST

If you experienced military sexual trauma and need immediate support, please call the SMSRC 24/7 line at 1-844-750-1648. You may also qualify for benefits and support; visit our page on military sexual trauma to learn more.

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Veteran support: Resources and assistance across Canada

Provincial and national supports for Veterans and their families are essential. Here are a number of groups where you can access vital services, from financial assistance to wellness programs.

First, there is increased funding available for Veterans in Ontario through the Soldiers' Aid Commission. Ontario Veterans can now receive up to $3,000 annually in financial support, a 50-percent increase from the previous $2,000 limit. This funding helps cover health-related expenses such as hearing aids, specialized equipment, home repairs and employment-related costs. To apply, Veterans can contact Veterans Affairs Canada, log into your My VAC Account or the Royal Canadian Legion for assistance.

In Québec, the Fondation Québécoise des Vétérans plays a key role in supporting Veterans, especially Francophone Veterans. Funded by VAC’s Veteran and Family Well-being Fund, they offer programs for Veterans transitioning to life after service, with a focus on those dealing with PTSD, homelessness or unemployment. It also assists Veterans in long-term care at Ste. Anne's Hospital.

Veterans across Canada can access national organizations like Support Our Troops and Legion Financial Assistance. These organizations offer financial benefits and various services to support Veterans nationwide in their journey toward well-being and stability.

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Spotlight on women Veterans

Volunteers needed for study on women Veterans experiencing homelessness

Estimates suggest there are 2,400 Canadian Veterans experiencing homelessness, with 30 percent identifying as women. To better understand this issue, Lawson Health Research Institute is conducting Canada’s first national study to deal specifically with women Veterans experiencing homelessness.

The project is expected to help researchers better understand the overlap between gender and homelessness, find service barriers faced by women Veterans and create solutions to reduce women Veteran homelessness. Women Veterans participating in this study will take part in an interview, with the first part focusing on past experiences, what is working or not working well, and how they would design a support program. The second part involves questions about their housing history and quality of life. Interviews can be done by telephone or virtually, and everyone who takes part is paid for their time.

This study is a big step toward raising awareness and advocating for homeless women Veterans in Canada. If you are a woman CAF or RCMP Veteran who has experienced homelessness, please email or call 519-685-8500 ext. 75802. Your voice matters. Visit the Lawson Health Research Institute website to learn more.

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Veterans’ stories

Luc Lacasse

Luc Lacasse served with the Royal Canadian Air Force for 44 years. He flew airplanes and helicopters across North America, Europe and Central America. Whether at high altitude or closer to the ground, he always flew with impeccable precision.

Luc was born in Sherbrooke, Quebec, in 1957. He grew up and went to school there and also took part in the Cub Scout and Scout movements. To help pay for some of his education, Luc joined the militia, with the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke, in 1973.

While in university, Luc spoke with an acquaintance who had just joined the military air force as a pilot. He was also interested in this career path and decided to join the regular forces in 1979.

Read Luc’s full story here.

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Commemoration

Canada remembers CAF in the Americas

Veterans and CAF members have always been there for us—and for other countries in the Americas. From Prairie floods to East Coast storms and ocean rescues. From the Halifax explosion to earthquakes in Haiti. From Canada’s North to NORAD and Nicaragua.

In 2025, we are highlighting Canadian service in our country and throughout the Americas. We invite you to think about how Veterans and CAF members have kept us safe, sovereign and strong—and made sure Canada is a good neighbour. We will feature Canadians’ stories and their diverse experiences about:

• defending Canada and our allies
• peacekeeping and security operations
• search and rescue operations
• standing up for Canadian sovereignty
• providing aid after natural disasters

For more information, visit the CAF in the Americas web page.

Upcoming events

Join us during Ottawa’s Winterlude Festival (January 31- February 17) or Winnipeg’s Festival du Voyageur (February 14-23). Explore our themed displays, including an ice sculpture in Ottawa and panels showcasing CAF contributions in the Americas. Recognize and celebrate those who are dedicated to protecting Canada and helping others across the hemisphere.

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Send a Valentine to a Canadian Veteran

Every year, Canadians are invited to send Valentine’s Day cards to Veterans. This gesture is one of the many small ways we can recognize and thank them for their service—and the sacrifices they made for our nation.

Taking part is easy. You can hand-deliver cards to Veterans in your community, mail them to our head office in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, or share pictures of them on social media with the hashtag #ValentinesForVets.

If you’re an educator or a member of a community organization, get involved and spread the word about this special program.

If you would like to receive Valentines for yourself or Veterans near you, please contact us. Learn more about Valentines for Vets.

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Recognizing volunteers who go above and beyond for Veterans

Year after year, people from across the country and around the world volunteer their time for Canadian Veterans.

There are many ways that these individuals contribute to the well-being and recognition of Veterans, but the underlying message is clear—people care about Veterans.

If you know someone whose volunteer efforts should be recognized, nominate them for the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation. The deadline to nominate someone for their work over the past year is 31 January 2025. Nominations received after 31 January 2025 will be considered for the 2025 calendar year. Visit our website to learn more.

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Commemoration calendar

February

February 4: The first Canadian military aviator to give his life during wartime, Lieutenant William Frederick Nelson Sharpe was killed during a training flight at Shoreham, England (1915)

February 8: Operation Veritable and later Operation Blockbuster began to remove the Germans from their last positions west of the Rhine (1945)

February 9: End of Operation Bandit, which evacuated around 1,400 Canadians living in Haiti (1988)

February 14: Five Motor Torpedo Boats of the Canadian 29th Flotilla are burned in an accident in Oostende Harbour (1945)

February 18-27: Canadians participate in the Battle of Paardeberg during the South African War (1900)

February 21: The Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry participate in one of the first trench raids of the First World War (1915)

February 23: Operation Toucan peacekeeping mission begins in East Timor (2000)

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