How to Help the Family of a Deployed Solider

It's never easy being the person left behind, especially when that person's partner is being deployed to somewhere dangerous. Usually the burden of bills to pay, children to care for and a host of other responsibilities seem too much without a spouse to share them with. If you have a family with a deployed solider, understand that they are dealing with a lot and help from someone who cares can have a huge impact on their daily lives. Here are some ideas to help you get started.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Examine your talents and see what skills you can share with the family. It could be something as simple as running errands.

2. Don't pressure the family. Make your offer and then give them the time and space they need to make up their mind. If the family is reluctant, you might suggest they contact you when they do need something.

3. Talk to the family about what care package their soldier might need. You could turn it into a community event. Soldiers are usually in need of basic toiletries, snacks, underwear, books or items to give to the local children in a war zone. At the same time understand that there might be restrictions on what you can send, but the family would know what is and isn't allowed.

4. Remember the holidays. This is usually a very hard time for a military family with small children, and the perfect time to give gifts and cards.

5. Send cards for no reason. Think of how uplifting it would be for a spouse to open the mailbox and see a lovely “thinking about you card” among his bills and catalogs.

6. Is a pet involved? If so offer to walk the dog or feed the cat at least once a week. It can be a great burden lifted off a mother with young children.

7. Finally put yourself in the spouse's shoes. If you were that person, what would help you deal with daily life? A little mowing, raking, window washing, shopping? Whatever it is, just be there.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people will refuse help. Givers are obligated to respect that right.