To all our new arrivals, welcome to Europe! Living in Europe can be amazing, rewarding and a life changing experience. But it can also sometimes be frustrating, challenging and a little difficult. While you are posted to Europe, Military Family Services (MFS) is here to help you and your family make the transition to your new community as smoothly as possible. Our goal is to provide you and your family with whatever support and information we can to help make this posting an amazing experience for your family.
Our programs and services have been developed to meet the needs of CAF families posted to Europe. Some of these services include:
Welcome packages and activities
Information and referral services
Personal development and community integration activities
Child and Youth Programs
Mental Health Programs
Employment and Education
A robust virtual program providing book clubs, coffee mornings, seminars and workshops.
Hopefully you have already visited your local Military Family Service Centre to pick up your welcome bag and meet your MFS team members. If you live remotely, your welcome bag will be delivered to you. The welcome bag contains various items for your transition as well as a flash drive that has very useful information, such as your local Guide. MFS staff will be in touch with each family shortly after arrival, but in the meantime, if you need information or have a concern, visit this page to get contact information for staff that support families in your area.
Remember that your personal attitude and expectations will also directly impact your experience. Things will be different in Europe. Keep your attitude positive, your expectations realistic and be prepared to practice patience when necessary. Most importantly, come to Europe with an open mind and a willingness to embrace this wonderful new adventure. But if you do find yourself or a family member struggling to adapt, please do not hesitate to contact any of our team members.
You just arrived, and you want to know how to make the best of your time in your new location? Check out our Guides! Find your location on our website and our guides are just one click away! The guides are living documents. As a result, if you have suggestions and would like to contribute to the well-being of our newcomers, please contact your MFS(E) Centre. We are always looking for volunteers to help us create new guides and improve upon our existing guides.