Support Systems for Military Families

Military families moving due to relocation can access various support systems provided by the military and other organizations to facilitate the transition. Some of these support systems include:

Relocation Assistance Programs (RAP): Military installations offer relocation assistance programs to help families navigate the moving process. These programs provide information, resources, and support services, including pre-move counseling, relocation workshops, and assistance with housing, transportation, and settling into the new community.

Military Housing Offices: Military housing offices assist families in finding suitable on-base or off-base housing options. They provide information on available housing inventory, housing allowances, lease agreements, and tenant rights and responsibilities. Privatized housing companies may also offer relocation assistance and support services.

Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO): The Personal Property Shipping Office manages the shipment of household goods and personal belongings for military families. They coordinate with moving companies through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to arrange for the packing, pickup, transportation, and delivery of household goods during relocation.

Spouse Employment Support: Military spouses can access employment assistance programs and resources to help them find job opportunities and advance their careers despite frequent relocations. Programs like the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) connect spouses with partner employers committed to hiring and retaining military spouses.

Education Support Services: Military families receive support in navigating educational transitions for their children. School liaison officers provide information on local school options, enrollment procedures, academic programs, and resources for students with special needs. The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children facilitates the transfer of educational records and ensures continuity of education for military-connected students.

Healthcare Services: Military families can access healthcare services through TRICARE, the military healthcare program. TRICARE provides comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health coverage for service members and their families, including access to healthcare providers and facilities in their new location.

Financial Counseling and Assistance: Military families can receive financial counseling and assistance to manage the financial aspects of relocation, including budgeting, entitlements, allowances, and reimbursement for moving-related expenses. Financial readiness programs provide guidance on saving, investing, debt management, and financial planning for the future.

Community Support Programs: Military installations offer various community support programs and resources to help families integrate into their new communities. These programs include spouse clubs, family readiness groups, morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) activities, and social events that promote networking, camaraderie, and support among military families.

Crisis and Emergency Assistance: Military families can access crisis intervention, counseling, and emergency assistance services through military support organizations like the Military and Family Life Counseling Program (MFLC), Military OneSource, and the American Red Cross. These organizations provide confidential support for a wide range of issues, including emotional stress, family conflict, financial hardship, and emergency situations.

Overall, the support systems in place for military families moving aim to address the unique challenges of relocation and provide comprehensive assistance to ensure a smooth transition and successful adjustment to their new environment.