Supporting Military
Allow me to introduce my husband, Warrant Officer Fleet, who has a remarkable history in the Canadian Armed Forces. He took his oath on the morning of September 11, 2001, the same day the tragic events unfolded at the Twin Towers in New York. Throughout his distinguished career, he has served on significant deployments to Bosnia in 2003 and Afghanistan in 2005. Now, having surpassed 20 years of dedicated service, we wholeheartedly support his unwavering passion and commitment to his role in the military.
As a family, we have experienced the challenges of two relocations and understand the rollercoaster of emotions that come with it. It’s not uncommon to feel a sense of limbo, confusion, uncertainty, and separation anxiety during such transitions. Simultaneously, there may be a mix of excitement and anxiety about the new adventures that relocation brings. Rest assured, these feelings are completely normal; after all, we are all human.
Having assisted numerous military families relocating between Nova Scotia and Ontario, I’ve witnessed firsthand the range of emotions they go through. As someone who has been there and understands, I am here to support you and your family throughout your relocation journey. Together, we can navigate the challenges and make this transition as smooth as possible, creating a new chapter filled with exciting opportunities for growth and new experiences. Remember, you are not alone, and I am committed to helping you every step of the way.
What Should You Do When You Get Your Posting Message?
The first thing you should do when you receive your posting message is register for your BGRS account.
Once your account has been registered, it is important to start tracking all aspects of your move. Your BGRS account will help keep you organized and assist with any questions or concerns you may have.
Be sure to check out the “Knowledge Center” on your dashboard page for “how-to” video tutorials. Some videos can also come with mandatory forms that will need to be filled out and submitted to your account. Some of these videos include, “How to submit a claim”, “How to arrange your HHT, DIT, or Spousal Employment Trip, and “Application for Household Good & Effects” (HG&E), etc
Your dashboard will also contain pdf-readable guides to help you stay informed like “Finance Guide”, “What is the difference between Change of Strength (COS) and Report for Duty (RFD) dates”, “How to use the mobile app” etc.
You will be able to keep track of your tasks through detailed checklists. It offers checklists from 4-1 week before your move, pack, load and clean day, and possession at the destination. You will also be able to keep track of your trips, finances, and 3rd party suppliers. This is where you would select me as your Realtor®. This is also where you would select your lawyer, mortgage specialist, inspector, etc.
Relocation Overview
You can find pertinent information in the “Relocation Overview” PDF, which includes the details you require.
Relocation Manual and Directive
To discover what you are entitled to for your relocation, you can check the Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD).
What Are Your Geographical Boundaries?
Geographical boundaries refer to the area surrounding a Member’s permanent workplace, established to ensure a reasonable daily commute from your place of residence to your permanent workplace by or under the authority of the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS).
Guide to Relocating: Move with Ease
Relocating can be challenging, but our comprehensive “Guide to Relocating” is here to support you every step of the way. We understand the emotional and logistical complexities that come with military postings, and our guide aims to provide you with practical tools and resources to make your move more manageable.
Downloadable Tools and Checklists :
General Information
Your House Hunting Trip
Settling In and Making Connections
Finances/Budgeting
Moving Preparation
Children and Childcare
Healthcare
Education
Tips To Help Your Children When Being Posted
Prepare your children for the exciting adventure of relocation with our “Hero in Training Activity Book.” Designed for children ages 6-8, this engaging booklet is a perfect companion as you navigate the challenges of moving, helping your kids stay occupied and excited during the process.
Key Features:
- Engaging Activities: Puzzles, games, and exercises guided by superheroes Bobbi and Peri.
- Life Skills Development: Enhances independence, problem-solving, and multi-step planning.
- Mission Categories: Covering move preparation, emotions, making new friends, and more.
Educational and Fun:
The activities are not just entertaining but also educational, improving reading, comprehension, and self-expression skills.
Download the Activity Book:
Download the activity book to empower your children, helping them build confidence and excitement for their new home. The booklet covers various aspects of the relocation journey, making it a valuable resource for military families.
What Is MFRC? Military Family Resource Centre
The MFRC (Military Family Resource Centre) is a remarkable community organization led by military family members. Through collaboration with the Canadian Armed Forces and Military Family Services, the MFRC is dedicated to delivering a wide range of programs and services to children, youth, adults, and families within the military community.
With a focus on supporting military members and their families, the MFRC offers a diverse array of programs and resources. Whether you prefer online accessibility with videos, guides, and checklists, in-person interactions, or assistance over the phone, the MFRC caters to various preferences and needs.
Their comprehensive support aims to foster a strong sense of community and address the unique challenges and opportunities that military life entails. As a trusted partner, the MFRC stands ready to empower military families, enriching their experiences and providing essential assistance along the way.
- Child Care
- Children & Parents
- Deployment Support
- Mental Health and Well-Being
- The Veteran Family Program
- Health Care
- Relocation
- Plus more
Download Our Family Guide:
Discover valuable insights and resources in our comprehensive guide tailored for modern military families. “A Family Guide to the Military Experience” is designed to assist you—the spouse, partner, parent, grandparent, sibling, and/or child of a serving member. Gain a general overview of the resources needed to navigate the challenges of frequent relocations, separation, and maintaining the overall health and well-being of your family.
5th Canadian Division- Atlantic Canada: Serving our Communities
Overview:
Welcome to 5th Canadian Division, the central hub for military operations in Atlantic Canada. As a crucial component under Army Headquarters in Ottawa, we play a vital role in ensuring the security and readiness of our nation.
Mission:
Comprising Regular Force and Primary Reserve units across Atlantic Canada, 5 Cdn Div contributes unique combat support enablers to the Canadian Army.
Discover units:
Explore the vibrant tapestry of military presence in Nova Scotia under the 5th Canadian Division. From the bustling city of Halifax to the scenic landscapes of Truro and Sydney, our units stand ready and diverse. Learn about the specialized roles and contributions of each unit, fostering a strong and resilient defense force across multiple communities. Discover the essence of our military community and the unique capabilities that make Nova Scotia an integral part of the 5th Canadian Division
Nova Scotia
- 36 Canadian Brigade Group (Halifax)
- 36 Signal Regiment (Halifax, Glace Bay, Charlottetown)
- The Halifax Rifles (RCAC) (Halifax)
- 1st (Halifax-Dartmouth) Field Artillery Regiment, RCA (Halifax)
- 36 Combat Engineer Regiment (Sydney)
- The Princess Louise Fusiliers (Halifax)
- The West Nova Scotia Regiment (Aldershot)
- The Nova Scotia Highlanders (North) (Truro)
- The Cape Breton Highlanders (Sydney)
- 36 Service Battalion (Halifax, Sydney)
- 3 Intelligence Company (Halifax)
- Influence Activities (Halifax)
- 84th Independent Field Battery (Yarmouth)
About the Canadian Armed Forces Morale and Wellness Service (CAF RP)
A unique program that provides CAF members and their families assistance to relocate in response to operational requirements. The program provides a flexible approach according to their situation and family circumstances. Some of the services, help, and programs they offer are:
Are You Looking For Housing Information?
CFHA allocates DND housing to eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis according to household size and availability, as per DND policies. The allocation of DND housing is based on a priority system:
Priority 1 – posted to a new location and authorized to move at public expense
- Regular Canadian Armed Forces members
- Reserve Force members employed full-time and least on a 6-month contract
- foreign military or exchange personnel
Priority 2 – Regular Canadian Armed Forces members and Reserve Force members employed full-time and at least on a 6-month contract who already live in the area but have applied to move into DND housing. This includes members currently living in military housing who have a change in household size and would like to move into a different-size unit. We will consider Priority 2 applicants after all Priority 1 applicants have been accommodated
Priority 3 – Government of Canada employees who would like to move into military housing. They are considered opportunity occupants and will only be considered when surplus housing exists that exceeds our current and projected needs. Should the homes be needed for Priority 1 occupants, we will give the opportunity occupants at least 30 days to vacate. This group includes:
Priority 3 – Government of Canada employees who would like to move into military housing. They are considered opportunity occupants and will only be considered when surplus housing exists that exceeds our current and projected needs. Should the homes be needed for Priority 1 occupants, we will give the opportunity occupants at least 30 days to vacate. This group includes:
- employees of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police
- indeterminate Public Service employees working in support of the Department of National Defense
- Full-time Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services employees
- indeterminate employees of other Government of Canada departments
- Department of National Defense contractors on contracts over 6 months
Become A CF One Member
The CF One Card presents a host of rewards, discounts, and services for every member of the Canadian Armed Forces Community. This card is also available for military spouses. With this single card, you gain access to a multitude of exclusive programs and services provided by Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services. It’s your all-in-one pass to unlock the various benefits tailored to enhance your experience and well-being within the community. Embrace the convenience and advantages of the CF One Card, designed to cater to the unique needs of the Canadian Armed Forces Community.
Hello there! I’m Alisha Caillie-Fleet, a seasoned Real Estate Agent located in Halifax. With a sales history dating back to 2014 across Nova Scotia and Ontario, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. My specialization includes residential properties, investment opportunities, and military relocations. I’ve wholeheartedly committed myself to honing my skills to ensure that your experience of buying or selling a home is seamless and free of stress.
Being a military spouse, I also have personal insight into the challenges military families are confronted with. As a result, I’ve developed a tailored approach to cater to the unique demands of the DND moving process.
Let’s establish a connection and have a conversation about your real estate goals!
Alisha Caillie-Fleet – Realty in Nova Scotia | (902) 489-4911 | 1959 Upper Water St #1301, Halifax, NS B3J 3N2 | alishasellshfx@gmail.com | BGRS Approved