Whether you are pulling up stakes at Fort Leonard Wood or moving here, the Relocation Readiness Program, offered at Army Community Service, is available to help the transition go smoothly.
"The program is designed to assist with all aspects of relocating," said Carol Patton, Relocation Readiness Program chief.
Patton said she helps Families by answering questions, getting them in contact with the correct agencies and providing one-on-one consultations.
For Families new to Missouri, there are several ways relocation readiness can help.
The Lending Closet provides a 30-day temporary use of household items such as dishes, pots and pans, utensils, cribs, highchairs, portable mattresses and more, for use while awaiting delivery of household goods or after shipment of goods prior to permanent change of station.
"This keeps Families from incurring extra expenses when PCSing," Patton said.
A Newcomers' Orientation is held the third Thursday of the month from 8:30 a.m. to noon from January to November at the Main Post Chapel on Constitution Avenue.
"The orientation is hosted by the Division of Human Resources. It provides information about the installation and the surrounding area," Patton said.
Welcome Packets are available to all military personnel, Family members, civilians, Reserve Soldiers on annual training and individuals on temporary-duty status.
According to Patton, those heading out of Fort Leonard Wood can get help, too.
Overseas briefings are provided to service members who are PCSing overseas. The briefing provides knowledge on necessary topics to decrease difficulties in adjusting to an overseas relocation.
"The relocation office can provide information about the installation they are being assigned to, along with important contact numbers," Patton said.
One-on-one consultation is available for anyone needing assistance planning a move.
Hearts Apart is another program offered by the Relocation Readiness Program.
"It offers support for waiting Families by linking Family members and children with other Families who are left behind due to the sponsor's mission requirements. Spouses have the opportunity to informally meet others in the same situation, share information and fun activities and learn coping skills from the experts. It provides piece of mind to the Soldier by knowing someone else is looking out for the welfare of their Family," Patton said.
For more information visit ACS at 486 Replacement Avenue, call 573.596.0131, ext. 60212 or www.fortleonardwoodmwr.com/acs_relocation.php.
(Editor's note: This year marks 50 years that Army Community Service has been supporting service members, civilian employees and their Families. In honor of the organization's golden anniversary, the GUIDON is highlighting different ACS programs until their birthday in July. In June, the GUIDON will highlight the Army Family Team Building program.)
Social Sharing