The Athabasca University community shares in the sadness and loss experienced across the country due to the wildfire at the 3rd Canadian Division Support Base Detachment Wainwright on Saturday evening. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected, their families, and the broader Canadian Armed Forces community.
As a member of the Canadian Military, Veterans and Family Connected Campus Consortium (CMVF3C), Athabasca University is committed to supporting students and staff who are serving members, veterans, or otherwise connected to the Canadian Armed Forces.
We understand the profound impact on members of our university community of this tragic event and we encourage anyone affected to connect to the supports and resources available.
For students
Mental health and wellness supports and resources
AU’s wellness program provides access to short-term situational support, peer support, online resources, and other wellness supports. We encourage you to explore the available resources and connect with the service that best meets your needs.
Family Services provides short-term, situational support. Family Services is available to students enrolled and active in an AU course during the period in which counselling support is provided.
If you would like additional assistance navigating the available supports, you can contact the AU Health and Wellness team:
Email: healthandwellness@athabascau.ca
Phone: 1-844-969-0911
Appointment: AU Student Health and Wellness and Student Support
Academic advising
We are here to support if you have any questions or concerns about impacts to your courses and programs. Please contact the AU Service Centre at 1-800-788-9041 or visit Contact | Online learning | Athabasca University .
For staff
Access for all employees to short-term situational support, online wellness resources and other supports is available through the Employee Family Assistance Program, visit the website or call 1-866-833-7690. Please identify yourself as an Athabasca University employee.
External resources for current CAF members
Direct access to the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP) is available for regular force members and their immediate family members. Reserve Force members, Cadets, and Canadian Rangers may access services if the issue is directly linked to service or if they require an initial assessment and referral. 1-800-268-7708; TTY 1-800-567-5803 for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
External resources for veterans
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) Assistance Service is a confidential and free service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to veterans, former RCMP members, their family members, or caregivers. 1-800-268-7708.