The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a 3-part union that implements the mandatory U.S. Department of Defense enrollment program providing support for special medical and educational needs. The three teams in the functional union are Medical (EFMP-M), Assignments (EFMP-A) and Family Support (EFMP-FS). These functional teams work toward the common goal of providing comprehensive and coordinated support for EFMP families.
EFMP-FS provides services to every branch of service for military active duty, retired, reservist, guard members, DoD civilians, contractors, NAF employees, and immediate family members. The EFMP-FS office offers on and off base information, topical resources, information on respite care, conducts targeted research, opportunities to attend education briefings and training, makes referrals and organizes FREE adult and family events.
Researching Resources:
The EFMP Family Support Coordinators are here to assist in researching resources for the Exceptional Family Member (EFM). Please contact the M&FRC at 882.9060 for guidance on locating local community resources.
Respite Care:
USAF EFMP Respite Care is specifically designed for active duty Air Force families who have children diagnosed with moderate to severe special needs. The short-term child care helps reduce family stress and restores readiness. The local Family Child Care Coordinator registers EFMP families for respite care. Air Force Headquarters manages the program. They can be reached at: eglinFCC@gmail.com or 850.882.3736.
TRICARE Extended Care Health Option (ECHO):
Provides supplemental services to active duty family members with qualifying mental or physical disabilities. ECHO offers integrated services and supplies beyond those offered by your TRICARE program option. Registration is required for ECHO services with a regional contractor to be eligible for benefits beforehand. There is no retroactive registration for ECHO. For more information visit www.tricare.mil.
Resource Library:
The EFMP-FS office has an abundance of books available for checkout. Topics include: IEPs, autism spectrum, health-related issues, ADD/ADHD, parenting survival guides, and a large assortment of other medical, educational and behavioral materials just to name a few.
Information/Training:
EFMP-FS Coordinators brief leadership, newcomers, and new enrollees. In addition, they share upcoming training in a variety of formats that are offered throughout the year by various agencies such as: Specialized Training of Military Parents (STOMP), Direct Step e-Courses, Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC).
Events:
EFMP-FS events are a great way to connect with other families, reduce stress and improve morale. Activities vary each year and may include: miniature golf, zoo excursions, a baseball game, sailing cruise for adults, spa for adults, an Easter egg hunt, and a trip to the Emerald Coast Science Center just to name a few. These events are FREE to Eglin families with EFMs.
EFMP-Family Support Coordinators:
If you have questions about the EFMP-FS program, we welcome you to contact the EFMP-FS Specialists at 850.883.4342 or 850.883.1968 (DSN 875) or email marcile.silvia@us.af.mil or johnathan.mcdaniel.2@us.af.mil.
Downloads: Exceptional Family Member Program – Family Support Brochure (PDF)