Backgrounder

Explanation of Terms

The overseas air crew of Ferry Command assisted the war effort by ferrying military aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean from North America. During the Second World War, some 340 Canadian and Newfoundland civilian pilots and aircrew were under contract to deliver aircraft from North America to Britain and elsewhere.

The Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit assisted the war effort by cutting timber in Scotland which was predominantly used in British coal mining operations. Britain quickly realized that the increased production of coal was a strategic imperative to fuel the war effort and thus the immediate need for experienced loggers to produce mining timbers. Over the course of the war, 3,680 Newfoundlanders served in this unit, although many later transferred to the British Armed Forces or served with the British Home Guard.

During the Second World War, the Corps of (Civilian) Canadian Fire Fighters for Service in the United Kingdom assisted the war effort by fighting fires in Britain that were created by the Blitz.

Overseas Welfare Workers, which included members of the Canadian Red Cross and St. John's Ambulance, served overseas as welfare workers in support of the injured.

Veterans Independence Program

The Veterans Independence Program (VIP) assists clients to remain healthy and independent in their own homes or communities. It does this by offering a variety of services to those who meet the eligibility requirements. VIP is not intended to replace other federal, provincial or municipal programs. It is combined with these other available services to best meet the needs of each client. The services veterans receive depend on their particular circumstances and health needs.

VIP assists with the costs of certain services provided at the client's home such as groundskeeping, housekeeping, personal care, nutrition, health care and support. It can also cover some transportation costs, ambulatory health care, and home adaptations.

News Release

Backgrounder - New Health Regulations Assist Wartime Civilians and Present-day Canadian Forces Members