Military & Family Readiness

01/07/2026

Students pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree can apply for need-based financial support. Our Hap Arnold Education Grants are now open for the 2026-2027 academic year for eligible spouses and children of Air and Space Force members.

📅 Apply now through April 30, 2026
🔗 Learn more at afas.org

01/07/2026

The Little Rock Regional Office is excited to announce the next monthly Virtual Veterans Claims Clinic to be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. This event will be by appointment only and will give Veterans an opportunity to speak with a local Regional Office employee over the telephone about their claim or any other questions or concerns they may have regarding VBA benefits.

01/06/2026

I worked in insurance for over a decade, including homeowners claims.

And I’ll be honest, I can count on one hand the number of people I saw who were truly prepared after a total loss.

One case has always stuck with me.

It was a renter who lost everything in a fire but she had excellent records. A simple walkthrough video, receipts where available, and clear documentation.

The result?

The claims process was smoother. Fewer disputes. Less back-and-forth. And a much better outcome when it came to replacing what she actually owned.

Most people don’t realize how hard it is to remember everything you had after it’s gone.

That’s why a 10-minute walkthrough video is one of the highest-impact things you can do to protect yourself.

If you live in an area prone to wildfires, hurricanes, flooding, or severe storms, this isn’t optional, it’s a must-do.

Make it a habit to update it once a year.

12/30/2025

⚠️ 2026 Government Funding Update

ℹ️ MFAN remains committed to keeping military families informed of the situations that impact your wellbeing. Here is what we know about government funding moving into 2026.

🏛️ Legislative: Congress is currently in recess. When the House and Senate return early next week, they will have about four weeks to pass another continuing resolution or complete the remaining FY2026 appropriations bills to fund the federal government. If either of these measures do not occur by January 30, 2026, the US will enter a partial shutdown.

✅ Currently Funded Bills: Three FY2026 appropriations bills have been signed into law: Agriculture, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. All other federal operations are currently funded through January 30, 2026 under the continuing resolution passed in November that ended the 43 day government shutdown.

💙 Military Families Impact: A shutdown would once again create uncertainty around pay and benefits for uniformed service members and civilian federal employees who support them. This would closely resemble the most recent shutdown experience. One key difference this time: SNAP and WIC benefits would not be impacted, as those programs are funded through the Agriculture appropriations bill.

🗓️ The weeks ahead: This is not meant to alarm. It is meant to help families plan, budget, and reduce stress where possible. If you can, dust off the contingency plans you used recently. If you anticipate needing assistance, do not wait until the last minute. If you feel inclined, contact your Congressional representatives to share your thoughts.

💛 MFAN will be here to keep you up to date as new details emerge.

During the last shutdown, MFAN was able to respond quickly because military families trusted us with their stories. You can help shape how we respond in moments like this. Sharing your experience through the Military Family 360 Survey ensures military family realities are understood when decisions are being made.

➡️ Take the survey here: https://milfanet.org/tellusyourstory

12/28/2025

For Military Families with Exceptional Family Members, this is for you. It is never to early to plan for your child's future. TRICARE Health Benefit continuation, Special Needs Trust, Guardianship, etc which all leads to the potential of having the child on your Survivor Benefit Plan.

12/08/2025

12/02/2025

🇺🇸 A heartfelt shoutout to the brave men and women of the 142nd Field Artillery!

As you embark on this journey, we wish you safe travels and a successful mission. Your dedication and service to our great country inspire us all.

Thank you for what you all are doing!

11/21/2025

Thank you for your interest in applying for an Arkansas National Guard Foundation (ANGF) Scholarship. It is indeed a privilege and pleasure to welcome your commitment to furthering your education and your interest in the Scholarship Program. Fifty $750 scholarships will be awarded for the academic y...

11/10/2025

SilverStar gift 2025 is in full swing check out our NEW logo! and website for more information https://www.silverstargift.org/