Blue Star Mothers marks Military Family Month with nationwide support push

Blue Star Mothers of America is using Military Family Month to spotlight the sacrifices of military families and the resources available to help them. The nonprofit says more than 6,000 members across nearly 200 chapters continue a long-running network of support for service members, veterans and their families.

Why it matters: - Military families carry the strain of deployments, frequent moves, missed holidays and reintegration into civilian life. - Blue Star Mothers of America is using Military Family Month to draw attention to those sacrifices and the support systems available nationwide. - The organization says military families often serve in ways that are not visible to the public.

What happened: - Blue Star Mothers of America began Military Family Month with a recognition message for families supporting U.S. service members and veterans. - National President Karen Stillwell said military families deserve honor for their strength, sacrifice and support through deployments, homecomings and transitions. - The nonprofit said it continues to serve military mothers and families through friendship, understanding and community service.

The details: - Blue Star Mothers of America was founded in 1942. - The organization includes mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, foster mothers and female legal guardians of those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard or Reserves, as well as veterans. - More than 6,000 members participate in nearly 200 chapters nationwide. - Members support one another from enlistment and basic training through deployments, reunions, transition and veteran life. - The group sends care packages and encouragement to deployed service members. - Members volunteer in VA facilities and state veterans homes. - The organization also supports veterans, honors Fallen Heroes and stands with Gold Star Families. - Military OneSource offers service members and eligible military families confidential support, including non-medical counseling, deployment support, relocation help, financial resources, relationship support and specialized consultations. - Military OneSource support is available 24 hours a day at 800-342-9647. - SpouseWorks, formerly the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program, connects eligible military spouses with career coaching, education and training resources, scholarships, fellowships, job opportunities and employer partners. - Military families can also access child care, education and youth programs for children facing moves and deployments. - Resources are available for families with special medical or educational needs through Exceptional Family Member support. - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers caregiver programs and resources for eligible veterans and family caregivers, including education and counseling.

Between the lines: - Blue Star Mothers is positioning Military Family Month as both a recognition campaign and a reminder that support for service members has to include the family behind them. - The emphasis on practical resources suggests the organization wants awareness to translate into direct help, not just appreciation. - The message also underscores how military life affects spouses, children and caregivers in different ways, not just the person in uniform.

What's next: - Blue Star Mothers of America is encouraging communities to check on military families during deployments, welcome newly relocated families and support military children through the month of November. - The organization is asking Americans to help families connect with assistance when needed. - More information is available through the organization’s national website and its Facebook page.