military-family-advocate-program

Department of Veterans' Services


Military Family Advocate (MFA) Program

Veteran and Military Family Summit
Ending Chronic Veteran Homelessness
ETS Sponsorship Program
Final Honors Program
Military Family Advocate (MFA) Program
Mission: VetCheck
Support for Veteran Service Organizations
VA Claims Unit
VA Work Study
VBLA
VetBizNYC
Veteran Voices Project
Veterans on Campus

Veteran and Military Family Summit

Ending Chronic Veteran Homelessness

ETS Sponsorship Program

Final Honors Program

Military Family Advocate (MFA) Program

Mission: VetCheck

Support for Veteran Service Organizations

VA Claims Unit

VA Work Study

VBLA

VetBizNYC

Veteran Voices Project

Veterans on Campus


MFA Program Background

The Military Family Advocate (MFA) Program is a collaborative initiative between NYC Public Schools and the Department of Veterans' Services, designed to enhance engagement with Veterans and military families. A pilot program was launched in Staten Island in 2023, with plans to expand across the five boroughs of New York City. The decision to pilot the program in Staten Island stems from the fact that it is home to over 10,000 Veterans, and hosts both an Army Reserve Base and a U.S. Coast Guard Station.

Many Service Members and Veterans, who have dedicated their lives to supporting and defending this country, often struggle to find the resources and support structures they need. The MFA Program aims to be the first point of contact, connecting them to vital services that they may not know exist.

Military families frequently seek support from relatives, religious leaders and schools. However, children in these families often face unique challenges and may feel misunderstood or isolated.

The MFA Program is here to provide the necessary support and understanding these families need to thrive in this great city.

MFA Program Objectives

Understanding Military Cultural Competency and exploring the most prevalent concerns of military families

How to therapeutically engage with military children and parents to address their concerns

How to identify and build a community with military families

How and where to access resources such as federal benefits, health care coverage, employment, primary health and mental health, education, etc.

How to create opportunities throughout the school year to reduce stigma

If your school or community is interested in participating in the MFA Program, click the button below to register the next training session:

Military Family Advocate Registration