CAMP F.A.C.E.S. Support Camp
APPLY FOR CAMP FACES TODAY! Click Here
APPLY FOR CAMP FACES TODAY! Click Here
What is Camp F.A.C.E.S?
What is Camp F.A.C.E.S?
By its very nature, Emergency Services are high risk occupations, which could result in a tragic loss, not only to Line of duty death but also by the suicide of a member. The loss of a loved one to a family is overwhelming and incredibly challenging to deal with. To a child, this loss is even greater. Many children experience feelings of confusion, anger, fear, isolation and depression.
Camp F.A.C.E.S. provides families who have suffered this tragic loss, the opportunity to be with others who have experienced similar loss. Along with trained personnel and mental health oversight, these families will have the opportunity to learn effective coping strategies, build resiliency, make connections, all while developing life long friendships.
Our Story
Our Story
We've loved every minute of our journey
We've loved every minute of our journey
An Idea Is Born
An Idea Is Born
Our Story
Established in 1999, The Canadian Critical Incident Stress Foundation is a charitable organization supporting first responders in the development of peer support programs and mental health initiatives.
In 2011, the CCISF underwent a re-vitalization, that included a vision of supporting our families impacted by these careers.
Recognizing the need to not only support our active-duty emergency personnel, but to also support and never forget the families and children of those members that have made the ultimate sacrifice.
In 2014 our vision was realized through the development of Camp F.A.C.E.S. (Family and Children of Emergency Services), with a focus on providing supports for this underserved population.
In 2015 the CCISF launched the first support camp for families of fallen members. Since then, Camp F.A.C.E.S. has been supporting surviving families of fallen, providing education, oversight, and connection, as they navigate this difficult and challenging journey.
Hosting the largest network of surviving families in Canada, we ensure that these families grow with guidance, connection, and resources, that can assist them in their daily lives.
We believe in the positive and lasting impact camp can have on the lives of these families and the significant difference connections can make on the road to healing. Through fun, friendship and support we can help wounded hearts heal.
"We are honoured to have the trust and the opportunity to support these vulnerable families and know Camp F.A.C.E.S. has been instrumental in their healing journey and in their daily lives"
What to Expect at Camp F.A.C.E.S.
Families attending the summer program will enjoy:
Families attending the summer program will enjoy:
Kid Campers ages 4 - 18
Children 4-18 will have an amazing time enjoying age relevant fun and engaging structured workshops. Our programs identify and enhance personal strengths and encourage peer support. Through creative arts, outdoor sports, lots of games and tons of FUN, our campers grow with support. Campers will meet new friends, challenge themselves and recognize that they are not alone.
Young Adults program ages 19-25
For many young adults, camp means the chance for a last hurrah before they head out into the real world. They can hone their skills while seeing friends they’ve made over years of camp attendance.
They particpate in leaders in training, being part of the team, guiding events and helping support the younger campers.
Spousal Campers
Our Spousal program builds lifelong support networks across Canada amongst our attendees. Through structured workshops, group/peer support, rest and relaxation, participants can connect, refocus and recharge, with a new sense of hope and healing.
Little ones (ages 0-3)
Take a break. Day care for children under the age of 4 is available, so that the adults may attend activities and meetings. Fun, friendship and play are on the menu for this little group.
What does support cost?
What does support cost?
The CCISF is proud to provide this program to qualifying Canadian families of fallen First Responders and Military families, at NO COST to them.
Accommodations, food, all activities, transportation
(if applicable) and support are all included.
What our families are saying....
“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten”
What our families are saying....
“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten”
The opportunity to spend quality time with caring, inspiring, and genuine people who understand or have been on the same rocky and twisted path trying to heal a broken heart is priceless.
Camp F.A.C.E.S. has been a unique vehicle that through the group discussions, team building, competing, learning and creative activities, it has reduced those stumbling blocks into steppingstones and greatly helped in the healing process.
Being able to listen and share experiences about a very traumatic and life changing event helps you realize that many of the same stumbling blocks blight all of our journeys. Those stumbling blocks conspire to trap us in a repeating or downward spiral and prevent us from moving forward in a meaningful or healthy way.
Camp F.A.C.E.S. has become the best part of the summer for my kids. Thank you for loving us and making us feel a part of a larger group. It truly is a family. It's our Camp F.A.C.E.S. family.
I had no real idea what to expect when I arrived but without doubt I left the Camp significantly richer and encouraged in so many ways due to the experience. Thank you!
Driving home I was feeling like there was hope for the future for the first time since my husband died seven and a half years ago. I wouldn't have believed it could happen in such a short period of time but admittedly, I feel relief, I feel there is hope for the future, I feel enveloped by everyone and most especially I feel that we are no longer alone on our journey to wellness. Thank you Thank you!!