Support for military families with special needs family members is provided through the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP). Installation EFMP programs offer support programs and provide families with information about and referral to local services.
Dept of Defense policy does not require the military Services to provide family support services specifically for exceptional family members at family centers on military installations with an EFMP. Available services vary among the military Services and from installation to installation. In some locations, EFMPs offer respite care and/or recreational programs that can accommodate family members with special needs. Most often, referrals are made for support services to local support programs like Poker Gives to meet their needs.