Living OUTCAN is on many of our bucket lists. However, it can be a very scary process for many of us. Having an amazing and informative sponsor can be the key to successfully living OUTCAN. Being a sponsor, you are not only there to help with the military administrative and logistical questions but things that will help in their day-to-day life also.
As a sponsor you need to be ready to answer the many questions they will have. Here are some examples of questions you may be asked.
Housing - what is the process in your area? Selection process
Phone and internet providers – who do they recommend as a provider? Also, ask if there are important things to know before getting set up like, how long does it take? Does the installation impact on your rental unit?
Utilities – How to set up?
Banking - Are there banking institutions locally that deal with Canadian military members and understand the temporary residency
Insurance - is there a local company that Canadian’s use for car and tenant insurance
Buying a car - What tips can you get for buying in your new community?
Education- What do you need to have and do to get your child registered for school?
Driving - What are some non-typical driving rules?
Grocery stores – Which stores are recommended? Also, are there local markets? Typically, you will find better prices there!
Social Media Pages - Are there Facebook community pages that you can join to get connected to what is happening in the community?
Dining - Where are some recommended local restaurants? While you are getting settled, make things easier and take out, or order in!
Local children’s activities – start with MFS but a great question to ask is where do families go for entertaining children.
Local customs - What are some local traditions, customs and ‘faux pas’? – ex. No work in Germany on Sundays! Siesta in Spain is real and shops and services close during those times (plan accordingly)!
Medical and Dental - What clinics and doctors are there to support Canadians? Don’t forget a copy of medical records.
Pets - What are local rules? Popular veterinarians and food brands
Water quality - Is the tap water safe to drink in your area?
Employment - Are there job opportunities for spouses in the community?
Public transport - What are the options?
Dependants in Canada - Are there family reunion travel allowances?
Car accident - Is there a specific procedure to follow?
Teenagers - Is there a curfew for walking alone in the streets at night?
School transport - What to do? If a child does not want to or cannot take the usual school transport, is there any possibility of reimbursing the costs?
Maybe you won’t know all the answers to their questions. What do you do then? As a sponsor it is very important to try and point them in the right direction. Your local MFS is a great place to start!
A sponsor can be worth their weight in gold! Remember this when you have taken on this role. Being a sponsor matters and can be very beneficial to the new members and their families. We need to remember that having knowledge is powerful. As a sponsor it is your role to pass on as much knowledge as possible.