For over 140 years, American service members, veterans, their families and caregivers have counted on the American Red Cross to help prepare for, cope with, and respond to the challenges of military service, both in the U.S. and abroad. Today, unique Red Cross programs and services that care for the humanitarian needs of the military community are spearheaded by employees and volunteers, many of whom are military connected themselves.
As the nation celebrates Military Appreciation Month this May, the Red Cross honors the sacrifices of the military community, and the countless individuals who dedicate their time and expertise to supporting service members, veterans, their families and caregivers through the Red Cross.
More than 200 service members, veterans and family members in Kansas and Oklahoma have attended Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces Resiliency Program workshops this fiscal year. These free events are facilitated by licensed behavioral health professionals who receive training on military life and culture. They include skills-building activities, stress-management techniques and small-group discussion.
The Red Cross recently provided a resiliency workshop for staff at the McConnell Air Force Base Military and Family Readiness Center, which provides services to their military families when they’re in need.
“Many of the staff members are veterans themselves, or spouses of service members. What they do can be stressful on them and as supporters for the military, they need support as well,” said Dean Epley, interim Regional Director of Service to the Armed Forces and International Services.
Through every phase of duty, service members and their families face a unique, sometimes daunting set of challenges. From the first day of enlistment to life after service, Red Cross team members are committed to providing a continuum of care.
- Through the Hero Care Network, the Red Cross connects service members, veterans and their families to free and confidential assistance any day, any time. This includes briefings for new enlistees, emergency communication messages, financial assistance, critical community services and more.
- The Red Cross maintains a global presence on hundreds of military installations and deployment sites – including 150 overseas locations – allowing staff and volunteers to provide in-person support for troops and their families, such as relaying emergency messages, teaching lifesaving skills, facilitating respite and wellness activities, and providing volunteer opportunities.
- The Red Cross aims to improve the health and wellness of people in the military community through programs that focus on the whole health of each person, including behavioral health workshops, hospital and clinic support programs, the provision of care, comfort and therapy items, and a global network for caregivers to increase connection, hope and well-being.