A customized crisis texting service was introduced today for the 78,000 children and youth of Canadian Armed Forces members to give kids access to free, confidential, mental health and wellbeing support in both English and French.
Military children with cell phones can access this service by texting the keyword CAFKIDS at 686868 for service in English or the keyword JEUNESFAC at 686868 for support in French.
This texting service is confidential, free, and available 24/7 across Canada.
Kids Help Phone has verified that staff and volunteer Crisis Responders have enhanced training and screening to better understand the complexities of the military family lifestyle, according to a news release.
"The COVID-19 pandemic can worsen existing difficulties for kids, and a parent’s or guardian’s deployment during COVID-19 may add significantly to the stress. Now, more than ever, having the means to stay connected and get support is critical," it says.
April is celebrated as the Month of the Military Child by the defence community; recognizing the sacrifices these children make is important. Children from military families can face unique challenges related to their parent’s or guardian’s service, including frequent geographic relocation and regular separation from family and other loved ones.
For more information, visit www.CAFconnection.ca/CAFKIDS.
