- Blue Star Families of Missouri: Offers free support circles, career programs, and outdoor activities to build community and reduce isolation.
- America’s Little Helpers: Focuses on mental health support for children of wounded or disabled veterans, including virtual events and summer camps.
- Caregivers on the Homefront: Provides counseling, case management, and free caregiver training for veterans’ families.
- NAMI Homefront: A free six-session program helping families manage mental health conditions like PTSD and depression.
- Sesame Street for Military Families: Free bilingual tools for children aged 2–8 to handle deployments, moves, and family changes.
- Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH): Offers clinical services, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention programs.
- VA Mental Health Services and Vet Centers: Free, confidential counseling for veterans and their families, with 24/7 crisis support.
- Missouri Veterans Suicide Prevention Team (MOVSPT): Community-led suicide prevention training and awareness initiatives.
- Access Crisis Intervention (ACI): 24/7 crisis response with mobile teams and localized support.
- Red Racks Thrift Stores: Financial relief and job opportunities for veterans through affordable shopping and donations.
Each resource addresses specific needs, from crisis intervention to long-term family support. Whether you’re seeking immediate help or tools to strengthen family connections, these programs provide accessible options for military families in Missouri.
1. Blue Star Families of Missouri
Blue Star Families of Missouri stands as a leading nonprofit dedicated to supporting military and veteran families, boasting a membership of over 280,000 nationwide. One of the key challenges this organization tackles is the sense of isolation and disconnection that often accompanies frequent relocations and deployments.
At its core, the organization aims to bridge the gap between military families and their civilian neighbors. As they put it:
We empower families to thrive as they serve. We are committed to strengthening military families by connecting them with their neighbors to create vibrant communities of mutual support.
One standout program is the Blue Star Support Circles, an 8-week virtual initiative offered at no cost. This program focuses on teaching participants critical crisis intervention skills, guided by mental health professionals. It’s designed to help families identify and address early signs of mental health crises. Through this suicide prevention effort, participants gain access to peer networks, resources from partner organizations, and tools like crisis response planning and self-care strategies – all within a safe, virtual setting.
Beyond mental health, Blue Star Families provides other valuable resources. The Blue Star Spouse Careers program helps address employment challenges, while Blue Star Outdoors encourages family bonding and stress relief through outdoor activities.
To further enhance support, the organization offers the Blue Star Neighborhood, a secure digital platform where military families can access exclusive discounts, local events, volunteer opportunities, and career-building resources like resume tools. Families can engage with the community through local Chapters, Outposts, or the digital platform, ensuring both in-person and virtual support options are available.
The need for such initiatives is clear: only 41% of military families currently feel a sense of belonging within their local civilian communities. Blue Star Families is working to change this by fostering meaningful connections that combat isolation and promote mental well-being. Their efforts lay a strong foundation for the programs and strategies discussed in the following sections.
2. America’s Little Helpers
America’s Little Helpers (ALH) is a program dedicated to addressing the mental health needs of children whose parents are wounded or disabled veterans. Operated by the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, it acknowledges that when a parent returns from combat with physical or mental injuries, the entire family, especially the children, faces unique challenges that require tailored support.
The heart of ALH’s mission is to help these children not just cope but thrive, despite the difficulties that come with a parent’s war-related injuries. A cornerstone of the program is its focus on peer connections, believing that shared experiences can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. Through these connections, children gain a sense of belonging and support.
Serving military families across the country, ALH provides a variety of services that cater to both immediate needs and long-term growth. Regular check-ins ensure that participating children feel seen and supported. Additionally, monthly virtual events and educational programs focus on building emotional strength, teaching coping strategies, and fostering resilience. Families also receive email updates about new opportunities.
One standout offering is the annual summer camp, where children can participate in activities like cooking, art, life skills workshops, and mental health sessions. This camp provides a therapeutic environment while also teaching practical skills and offering a sense of normalcy.
Eligibility for the program is designed to prioritize families in greatest need. To qualify, the veteran parent must either be a member of the Coalition’s Veterans Circle or have sustained a qualifying injury during combat operations, with a disability rating of 30% or higher. The veteran must also either live with the child or have scheduled visitation rights. Support is extended to dependent children aged 18–24, even if they live outside the veteran’s home.
Military families in Missouri can apply through the Coalition’s website. For further assistance, reach out via email at americashelpers@saluteheroes.org or call 888-447-2588. Up next, discover more mental health resources available to military families.
3. Caregivers on the Homefront
Caregivers on the Homefront understands that military families often face challenges that go beyond the needs of the service member. Based in Kansas City, this organization offers mental health counseling and case management services to veterans, their families, and caregivers across Kansas and Missouri. By combining tailored counseling with practical support, they aim to address the unique struggles tied to military life.
This program takes a holistic approach, extending its resources not just to service members but also to their families and caregivers. Through their Mental Health Counseling program, they provide therapy for issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Options include individual, couples, group, family, and child therapy sessions, with telehealth services available for added flexibility.
The organization also offers case management services to help with unemployment, housing, financial issues, and educational needs.
Caregivers on the Homefront supports a diverse group of caregivers, from National Guard members to spouses, addressing a range of service-related conditions such as traumatic brain injury, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Counseling services are offered at a reduced cost, with up to six free sessions available when funding allows. Case management, along with educational workshops, support groups, advocacy services, and retreats, is provided at no cost. Additional resources include free caregiver training, online courses, self-care retreats, webinars, and faith-based support groups.
Military families in Missouri can access these services by calling 816-462-2022 or emailing info@caregivers-homefront.org for case management assistance. For general inquiries, they can reach out to caregivers.homefront@gmail.com. Applications for mental health counseling can also be submitted through their website.
4. NAMI Homefront Mental Health Resources
NAMI Homefront is a free, six-session educational program tailored specifically for military families navigating mental health challenges. Built on the foundation of the nationally recognized NAMI Family-to-Family program, it’s led by trained family members who have firsthand experience in supporting loved ones with mental health conditions. This peer-to-peer approach creates a supportive environment where families can share experiences, feel understood, and learn practical strategies to manage stress and maintain self-care while helping their loved ones.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2014 highlights the critical need for programs like this. NAMI Homefront adapts the evidence-based NAMI Family-to-Family curriculum to meet the unique needs of service members and veterans’ families dealing with mental health conditions such as PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
Participants gain valuable tools to navigate federal, state, and local services, along with insights into managing mental health challenges. The program also covers essential skills like crisis management, problem-solving, and effective communication skills that are particularly important during deployments, relocations, and transitions between military and civilian life.
Accessible both in-person through local NAMI affiliates and online, the program offers flexibility for busy military families. Weekly virtual classes provide an interactive and engaging learning experience, while families can also access a wealth of online resources at any time via the NAMI website. These resources include guidance on mental health conditions, treatment options, self-care tips, and strategies for managing stress during periods of transition. Military families can register for free online classes or contact their local NAMI affiliate for in-person options.
5. Sesame Street for Military Families
Military life often brings challenges like deployments, frequent moves, and family transitions – situations that can be especially tough for young children. To support these families, Sesame Street for Military Families offers free, bilingual resources for children aged 2–8 and their parents. Using beloved Sesame Street characters, the program provides tools to help kids manage big emotions and adapt to changes. The goal? To make these transitions a little smoother while helping children build emotional strength.
Since its launch in 2006, during a period of heightened military deployments, the program has distributed over 2.5 million resource kits and shared more than 5 million tools, including apps, webinars, and toolkits.
“We recognized the need to focus on the specific needs of young children and their Families through all the major milestones of military life while celebrating their service.” – Janay Powell, Program Analyst at Sesame Street for Military Families
The program’s impact is clear. For example, 83% of caregivers using the “When Families Grieve” materials reported feeling better equipped to discuss death with their child. Additionally, 76% said these resources helped their child cope with a family member’s injury. These tools are designed to guide kids through tough moments with practical, age-appropriate support.
Some standout tools include the “Breathe, Think, Do With Sesame” mobile app, which teaches calming and problem-solving techniques, and the Big Moving Adventure app, where kids create a virtual companion to help navigate the stress of relocating. The “Dear Elmo” video series tackles emotions tied to deployment.
Families can explore a variety of resources – videos, games, tip sheets, and articles – on the Sesame Street for Military Families website. Topics range from preparing for deployments to creating comforting bedtime routines. These tools emphasize the importance of regular rituals and self-expression to help children feel secure. Additional materials are also available for free through Military OneSource.
6. Missouri Department of Mental Health Services
The Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) plays a key role in supporting military families across the state. As stated in Mental Health for Missouri’s Veterans and Families:
“The Missouri Department of Mental Health is committed to serving all Service Members, Veterans and their families.”
DMH provides a variety of resources designed to address the mental health needs of military families. Among these are the Behavioral Health Services Map, which helps families locate nearby mental health services, and self-assessment tools that assist in identifying concerns such as PTSD and substance use.
To raise awareness about suicide prevention, DMH organizes Buddy Check 22 Day every month. This initiative encourages conversations and support within the military community, aiming to reduce the stigma around mental health struggles.
Additionally, DMH offers online training programs focused on military culture and suicide prevention. These programs are designed to help clinicians and community members recognize and respond to mental health warning signs. Complementing this effort, the Missouri Veterans Suicide Prevention Team provides free, in-person Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training across Missouri and parts of Kansas, equipping participants with practical tools to intervene in crises.
These initiatives are part of a broader statewide network dedicated to addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by military families. A testament to Missouri’s commitment came on July 2, 2025, when the Missouri Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) was awarded the prestigious Challenge Coin for excellence in suicide prevention. This recognition underscores the state’s ongoing dedication to supporting its military community.
7. VA Mental Health Services and Vet Centers
The VA provides a wide range of mental health services tailored to meet the needs of Veterans and their families. These services are available through VA medical centers and Vet Centers, focusing on the unique challenges faced by military families.
Vet Centers play a key role in delivering family-centered mental health support. These community-based counseling centers offer confidential, no-cost services to eligible Veterans, service members, and their families. Services include individual, family, and couples counseling to help with military transitions, as well as bereavement counseling for family members who have lost a loved one in service.
Confidentiality is a priority at Vet Centers. Records are kept private and cannot be accessed by other VA offices, the Department of Defense, military units, or community providers without explicit permission [52–55]. This ensures a secure and supportive environment for addressing sensitive issues.
For immediate assistance, the Vet Center Call Center operates 24/7, providing Veterans, service members, and their families with a safe space to discuss military experiences or other concerns related to transitioning to civilian life. The call center staff includes Veterans from various service eras and their family members, offering a relatable and understanding perspective.
Missouri residents can access four Vet Centers across the state:
| Vet Center Location | Address | Contact Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis Vet Center | 287 North Lindbergh Boulevard, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 | 314-894-5739 | Mon: 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Tue–Fri: 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
| Columbia, MO Vet Center | 2475 Broadway Bluffs Drive, Suite 40, Columbia, MO 65201 | 573-814-6206 | Mon: 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Tue–Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
| Springfield, MO Vet Center | 319 East Battlefield Road, Suite B, Springfield, MO 65807 | 417-891-4988 | Mon–Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
| Kansas City Vet Center | 4800 Main Street, Suite 107, Kansas City, MO 64112-2501 | 816-922-5300 | Mon–Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
These centers do more than offer counseling. They connect families with other VA resources, including referrals for medical care, benefits, employment assistance, substance abuse assessments, and specialized services that involve families in a Veteran’s recovery journey.
For crises, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 to support Veterans, their families, and friends. You can reach this service by calling 988 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or starting a confidential chat online.
To find the nearest facility, use the VA’s online locator or call 877-222-8387. The VA and Vet Centers work together to confirm eligibility and guide individuals toward alternative resources when necessary.
8. Missouri Veterans Suicide Prevention Team (MOVSPT)
The Missouri Veterans Suicide Prevention Team (MOVSPT) takes a grassroots approach to tackling military suicide. This network is made up of military-connected volunteers who are certified in Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention training, offering their services for free across Missouri and parts of Kansas. Their volunteer-driven model focuses on creating a strong, community-based approach to suicide prevention.
MOVSPT’s team includes service members, veterans, and military family members – people who deeply understand the unique challenges faced by the military community. Volunteers receive training materials through the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) Veterans Services and are always looking for more military-connected individuals passionate about suicide prevention.
The cornerstone of MOVSPT’s work is QPR Gatekeeper training. This program equips volunteers with the skills to recognize suicide warning signs and connect individuals to immediate help. Organizations across Missouri have found this training incredibly helpful in addressing mental health needs.
Recent training sessions include one at American Legion Post 230 on June 21, 2025, another during the American Legion Missouri convention in Cape Girardeau on July 11, 2025, and a session hosted by American Legion Post 416 in Farmington. These events highlight MOVSPT’s active role in spreading awareness and providing resources.
Military families and organizations interested in hosting a training session can connect with a MOVSPT trainer through the Missouri Department of Mental Health website. The team encourages communities to take advantage of these free training opportunities, ensuring that suicide prevention education reaches as many people as possible.
Additionally, the Missouri Department of Mental Health promotes awareness of suicide risks among military personnel by dedicating the twenty-second day of each month to education efforts. This ongoing initiative complements MOVSPT’s mission, emphasizing the importance of community-led prevention strategies.
9. Access Crisis Intervention (ACI)
Access Crisis Intervention (ACI) is Missouri’s around-the-clock crisis response system designed to assist anyone facing a behavioral health emergency. This program offers immediate help through a combination of telephone consultations and mobile crisis teams that meet individuals and families directly in their communities, ensuring timely and localized support.
The ACI model prioritizes accessibility by providing hotline assistance and dispatching mobile crisis teams to homes, schools, and community spaces. This approach helps to minimize unnecessary hospitalizations or prolonged detentions. When military families reach out to the ACI hotline, trained crisis counselors assess their needs and recommend the best course of action. For situations requiring more comprehensive care, the program connects families to Behavioral Health Crisis Centers (BHCCs), which provide short-term care as an alternative to extended hospital stays.
In Missouri, about 34.3% of residents report experiencing anxiety or depression, highlighting the critical need for accessible crisis services. Military families can call the ACI hotline at 356-5395 for free assistance, regardless of insurance coverage. Additionally, for military-specific emergencies, families can contact the Veterans/Military Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1.
ACI services are delivered by state-certified agencies, with Mark Twain Behavioral Health covering specific areas in Missouri.
What sets ACI apart is its immediate, community-focused approach, which eliminates the delays often associated with traditional mental health services that require appointments or referrals. This ensures military families and others receive the support they need, exactly when they need it.
10. Red Racks Thrift Stores Community Support
Red Racks Thrift Stores play an important role in Missouri’s network of support, helping ease financial burdens while fostering opportunities for community connection. Since 1958, this veteran-owned organization has been committed to backing military families through its community-focused veteran services. By shopping or donating, Missourians can directly assist veterans and their families, addressing financial challenges that often impact mental well-being.
With over 10 locations across Missouri, proceeds from Red Racks support DAV programs that provide critical services like medical care, job training, and housing assistance. In 2023, DAV reported that 83.3% of contributions went directly to benefit veterans and their families.
“Those people that are currently enlisted, this is their future, so we want to build upon that foundation.” – Chandra Regan, Business Operations Manager
Red Racks not only offers affordable essentials to ease financial strain but also creates job opportunities for veterans, helping them transition smoothly into civilian life.
You can contribute by donating gently used items or shopping at Red Racks. Donation bins and store collections are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., and Sundays, 10 a.m.–8 p.m..
“Our hope is that Red Racks will become a shopping destination and the community’s choice when it comes to donating their gently used clothing, furniture, and household goods”, – Doug DePew, CEO
Additionally, Red Racks collaborates with local organizations to host collection drives, further supporting services for veterans and military families.
Resource Comparison Table
Here’s a quick overview of various mental health resources tailored for military families. The table below highlights their key features, costs, and services to help you find the best fit based on your needs, location, and circumstances.
| Resource | Cost | Counseling Services | Crisis Support | Family Programs | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Star Families of Missouri | Free | Peer support groups | Limited | Yes – family events | Focused on Missouri with strong community connections |
| America’s Little Helpers | Free | Child-focused support | No | Yes – children & families | Specializing in pediatric mental health support |
| Caregivers on the Homefront | Free | Support groups | Limited | Yes – caregiver focused | Offers respite care coordination |
| NAMI Homefront | Free | Education program | No | Yes – family education | Includes a free 6-session program for families |
| Sesame Street for Military Families | Free | Child resources | No | Yes – early childhood | Provides age-appropriate materials for young children |
| Missouri Department of Mental Health | Varies | Full clinical services | Yes | Yes | Statewide coverage with sliding scale fees |
| VA Mental Health Services | Free | Individual & group therapy | Yes – 24/7 | Yes | Free access through walk-ins or calls |
| Missouri Veterans Suicide Prevention | Free | Prevention-focused | Yes – crisis intervention | Yes | Offers specialized suicide prevention training |
| Access Crisis Intervention (ACI) | Free | Crisis counseling | Yes – 24/7 hotline | Limited | Provides immediate crisis response |
| Red Racks Thrift Stores Community Support | Free | Indirect support | No | Yes | Offers affordable shopping, career opportunities, and community support |
While most of these resources are free, some state services use sliding scale fees – contact providers directly for up-to-date details. Each resource offers something unique: NAMI Homefront focuses on educational programs, VA Mental Health Services provides 24/7 clinical care, and Sesame Street for Military Families specializes in child-friendly materials. For caregivers, Caregivers on the Homefront offers stress relief options, while immediate crisis support is available through VA Mental Health Services and Access Crisis Intervention.
Often, the best approach combines clinical services, peer support, and community connections to build a well-rounded support network. Use this guide as a starting point to identify the resources that align with your family’s needs.
Conclusion
Military families often face unique mental health challenges that require tailored support and resources. The ten resources outlined here provide a broad network of assistance, from immediate crisis intervention to long-term educational programs for families. Whether it’s the round-the-clock help offered by the Veterans Crisis Line, the child-focused initiatives from Sesame Street for Military Families, or the sense of community fostered by organizations like Red Racks Thrift Stores, Missouri offers a wide range of support to meet these needs.
Prioritizing mental health strengthens family connections and brings purpose to the military family experience. Addressing these needs empowers families and reinforces the broader military community.
This message underscores the importance of seeking help and taking proactive steps toward mental wellness. Often, the first step is as simple as making a call or reaching out. For urgent support, the Veterans Crisis Line is available at 988 (press 1). For non-emergency assistance, contact your local VA medical center or call 877-222-8387 for guidance. Additional help is also available through Military OneSource at 800-342-9647.
Last year alone, over 1.7 million Veterans accessed mental health services through the VA. These efforts go beyond solving immediate issues – they help build resilience, improve family relationships, and enhance military readiness. Studies show that family well-being plays a crucial role in retaining service members. By taking advantage of these Missouri-based resources, military families can move toward a stronger, healthier future while contributing to a supportive and connected community.
FAQs
What mental health resources are available for military families who don’t live in Missouri?
Military families living outside Missouri have access to a range of mental health resources available nationwide. For instance, Military OneSource offers free and confidential counseling specifically designed to meet the unique needs of military families. Similarly, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides mental health services, including private counseling sessions and access to community-based Vet Centers.
Organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project also step in to provide mental health support for veterans and their families. These programs are available no matter where you are, offering essential services like counseling, guidance, and opportunities to connect with supportive communities.
What mental health challenges do military families commonly face, and how do these resources help?
Military families face distinct mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma-related conditions. These difficulties often arise from the pressures of deployment, frequent relocations, and the emotional strain tied to combat exposure. For children in military families, the impact can manifest in behavioral issues, academic struggles, and a sense of instability caused by parental absences and constant moves.
The resources discussed here aim to address these challenges by offering support specifically tailored to military families. Services like counseling, therapy, and community programs are available to help families manage stress, strengthen resilience, and maintain emotional health during tough times.
What are the eligibility requirements and application steps for military family mental health programs?
Eligibility requirements and application steps for mental health resources can differ based on the program. For instance, Military OneSource offers support to all military families dealing with challenges, regardless of discharge status or service history. On the other hand, programs through the VA typically require veterans to be enrolled in VA health care. Similarly, TRICARE often necessitates enrollment and may require referrals or prior authorizations for certain services.
Some resources, like the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP), are tailored specifically for active-duty families with dependents needing ongoing care. For eligible families, enrollment in EFMP is mandatory and involves a verification process. Generally, accessing these services may require completing an application, confirming eligibility, and, in some cases, obtaining a referral from a healthcare provider.
