Help for special needs families

  • Published
  • By Michelle Dent
  • Airman and Family Readiness Center
The Exceptional Family Member Program is designed to ensure care for family members with special needs who meet DoD criteria.

The EFMP-Family support staff maintains the community support entity of the Air Force EFMP.   In coordination with the 96th Medical Group and Military Personnel Flight assignments components by enhancing the quality of life of special needs family members.

Egin’s EFMP-FS team offers a variety of family-centered functions designed to provide support to our service members, Guard, Reserve, DoD civilians and retirees. This community support function includes: on-and off-base information and referral, resource center, parent training, support groups, relocation assistance, financial management, school information and more.

Other services include:

Referrals

An EFMP-FS Specialist can help link families to services an exceptional family member may need, or not even know about.

Respite care

The Respite Care Program is designed for Air Force active-duty families, who have children diagnosed with moderate or severe special needs.  Respite care programs vary between services.

Resource Center

The center has reading materials and DVDs available for checkout. Books and videos cover many special needs topics.

Training

Specialized parent training occurs throughout the year.  The Military Child Education Coalition provides training targeted to local educators, parents and on-base professionals.  The Specialized Training of Military Parents program provides parent-directed information and training. Direct Step eCourses explain legal requirements and best practices for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Individual Education Program eligibility, and more.

Camps and events

EFMP camps and events are a great way to connect with other families. Activities may include horseback riding therapy, arts and crafts, outdoor activities, family events and more.

For more information, call 882-9060.