Military families continually relocate, and navigating this journey can create significant challenges for everyone involved. While some of these can be unique to each family, there are many constants for all families when it comes to managing the complexities of transitioning to a new duty station.
Thankfully, numerous organizations provide vital support to military families throughout every step of the PCS process. Whether logistical or emotional, these organizations tailor their resources to meet the military families relocating exactly where they are, making the move more manageable and smoother.
Military One Source
planmymove.militaryonesource.mil
A never-ending resource for military families, they offer comprehensive PCS resources that include checklists, counseling, and educational materials. Once you’re registered on their website, the online checklist walks you through detailed questions, including about EFMP and whether you want to create your checklist from a topic or timeline view. The checklist also has the websites for everything from the family support groups to housing to Tricare.
Blue Star Families
bluestarfam.org
When you land on the Blue Star Families website, you see this sentence, “We empower families to thrive as they serve.” And after a few minutes of exploration and signing up to become a free member, they take their statement seriously! They really mean it when they say they are empowering families by providing perks with well-known companies and employment opportunities. And with their Blue Star Neighborhood, they have even created ways for military families to connect with each other during a PCS. The benefits to becoming a member reach far beyond the computer screen.
National Military Family Association
www.militaryfamily.org/info-resources/relocation
Well-known for its advocacy and support of military spouses, it’s also an organization that has an abundance of resources for the military family when it comes to relocating. There are websites for everything families need, including things families may not have thought about. The websites have been verified for trustworthiness, too. Searching for a home with the information provided becomes a much easier process knowing this. And, if you have pets, which many families do, there’s information for how to move with your pet, too!
Military Family Advisory Network
www.mfan.org/topic/moving-permanent-change-of-station
Designed with the military family in mind, they connect military families to their partners who get families the support they need from a holistic approach. The root of the military family starts with their well-being, and that’s a tough one to tackle when there’s continual changes. But the MFAN is prepared to be the resource for military families during a PCS. It includes information about how to navigate those situations when an item is lost or missing after a move. Families can find out more about reimbursement and claims, plus much more on their website.
Military No Stress PCS
militarynostresspcs.org
The organization’s name says it all! The entire site is one big resource for military families. They consider themselves a “concierge” to the relocating military family. From blogs, to school resources, even trade services for those times when you need something fixed, this site is there for you. Visit their website to find out more!
Go Millie
www.gomillie.com
The line, “Bringing military families home,” is what Go Millie strives to do. No more moving all by yourself when you have team Millie with you. They offer a free masterclass to take you through your PCS process. Plus, a scout to help you find that home that meets your family’s needs.
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