Handmade for the Holidays

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Handmade for the Holiday event, 2-3 December 2025 is now open. The application deadline is 11 November 2025.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
Join Soldier On for a festive two-day “Handmade for the Holidays” event, bringing together participants from New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island to celebrate creativity and connection. Over the two days, you’ll create a fresh holiday planter, a decorative wreath, a hand-painted wooden sign and sled, and a personalized mug, perfect for adding a festive touch to your home or gifting to someone special. All materials are provided. Come ready to get creative, share some laughs, and enjoy two days of holiday crafting and camaraderie.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 12.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the NB-PEI Region who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

1 December

• Travel for those outside the local area.

2 December

• 09000hrs-1200hrs- Mug Creations Session
• 1200hrs-1330hrs-Lunch on own and Travel by PMV to next session
• 1330hr-1630hrs- Wooded Sign Painting Session

3 December

• 09000hrs-1200hrs- Fresh Planter and Wreath arrangements Creations Session
• 1200hrs-1330hrs-Lunch on own and Travel by PMV to next session
• 1330hr-1630hrs- Wooded Sled Painting Session

4 December

• Travel for those outside the local area.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants who live within 1.5 hours of the event location are advised that transportation and meals will not be provided by Soldier On for this event, and no reimbursement for these expenses will be approved. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event locations, and provide their own lunch during each session. 

Travel assistance will be provided and coordinated by the Soldier On Regional Coordinator in conjunction with Soldier On Operations for those who live beyond the 1.5 hour driving distance of the event locations. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 5-6 hours of light paced activities for 2 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. 

This event involves light physical activity such as a small set of stair, standing, bending, and working with craft materials. Participants should be comfortable using basic hand tools, paint, and craft supplies. Tasks can be modified as needed to accommodate individual abilities—please let us know of any accessibility requirements in advance.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. Applicants are advised that for those who require meals and accommodations will be staying at Canadian Armed Forces bases/facilities, and thus they may be exposed to a day-to-day military environment. Applicants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol allowed in the accommodations, and will be required to share accommodations.