The Canadian Forces Personnel and Family Support Services (CFPFSS) launched the Reconnect program in Ottawa in January.

The vision of the pilot program is that through sustained involvement in morale and welfare programs, former Canadian Forces personnel and their families can access certain aspects of the social, physical, retail and financial benefits they received while serving.  Initiatives will include opportunities for active living, social networking and remaining connected with the CF. The program will also educate about the services currently available in the community, such as CANEX and Service Income Security Insurance Plan (SISIP) Financial Services.

The Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Program for Former Members and Families will promote a sense of community by fostering opportunities that enhance quality of life and overall well-being.

The Reconnect program is an information and connection portal to existing services and programs; an opportunity to meet new people and reacquaint with old friends; and it is a rewarding way to get involved in the community, share opinions, and help CFPFSS address needs and to better serve you.

The two-year pilot program is available only in the National Capital Region but if successful, Reconnect may lead to a national strategy for the engagement of former CF members and their families, and the implementation of a national program.

Services are delivered at the newly created Canadian Forces Community Outreach Centre at 1223 Michael Street, Ottawa.

For more information, please contact Lesley Lehman at Lehman.lesley@cfpsa.com or call 613-998-6241. Visit the Reconnect website www.reconnect-cf.ca or www.cfcommunitygateway.ca for program information or registration. You can also visit the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/CFReconnect.

Another new program launched in June was the CF Appreciation Program. This program will provide the CF community with access to a wide array of international, national and local discounts for goods and services, with emphasis on leisure travel including individual as well as family holiday packages, and many other goods and services of interest.

CF community members with access to the program include currently serving Regular Force and Reserve Force members and their families, former CF members and their families, civilian employees of the Department of National Defence, the CF and the Non-Public Funds agencies, and foreign military personnel serving with the CF.

For more information about The CF Appreciation Program, please visit www.CFAPPRECIATION.CA. or contact Colin Bayne at Bayne.Colin@cfpsa.com.