Soldiers Asking for Donations to Help With Housing, Food Costs: Memo to Gen. Eyre

Soldiers Asking for Donations to Help With Housing, Food Costs: Memo to Gen. Eyre
Canadian Forces personnel stand easy at CFB Kingston in Kingston, Ont., on March 7, 2023. The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick
The Canadian Press
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The military’s chaplain-general says many soldiers are struggling with the high cost of living and morale is the lowest it’s been in recent memory.

Chaplains say in a briefing note written to the chief of the defence staff that more Armed Forces members are asking for help to make ends meet.

The briefing note was sent to Gen. Wayne Eyre last month based on information gathered by chaplains in the first six months of the year.

It says that some soldiers have said they’re considering releasing from the military to avoid postings in certain locations.

Recent changes to the military’s housing allowance mean that more junior members will get help, but more senior members say they’re struggling to find housing.

The memo also says staff shortages at many bases and wings have led to “ever-present” tensions and conflicts in the workplace.