CAF to reimburse Maternity Clothing for members

December 21, 2021 - Defence Stories

Building and maintaining a working environment based on respect, dignity and inclusion is vital to the success of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the Department of National Defence (DND). To this end, we are updating and modernizing a number of our policies, processes, guidelines and instructions. On November 21, 2021, we announced via CANFORGEN an effort to improve conditions for CAF members who require specifically designed maternity or nursing clothing.

These new changes will now allow pregnant and nursing CAF members to be reimbursed for the purchase of clothing that is specifically designed to fit their needs.

Previously, some pregnant and nursing CAF members used larger men’s sized shirts to accommodate their needs. Or, they wore maternity clothing at their own expense. This approach was inadequate and is now being addressed through this reimbursement direction.

This change aims to ensure that members who are nursing and/or are pregnant, are accorded the respect and accommodation they deserve, as they continue to fulfill their work obligations.

• All expecting Regular and Reserve Force members* will be provided maternity t-shirt funding assistance. The funding assistance for maternity t-shirts is to be provided to each entitled member two times during a pregnancy, for a total reimbursement of $250 CDN.
• All Regular and Reserve Force members* who have returned to work and are continuing to nurse will be provided with the nursing t-shirt funding assistance. The funding assistance for nursing shirts will be up to $165 CDN within a fiscal year.

Members can now file their claims with their designated units, provided they have the receipts as their proof of purchase. No physical inspection of the items will be conducted at any time. Clothing must be in the environmental colours, or in black, neutral or white.

The CAF values the dignity of all members as an integral aspect of our culture and readiness, with inclusivity and mutual respect acting as a foundation for all our future operations.

*Regular and Reserve Force members who have completed basic training are entitled under the policy to receive reimbursements.