Hi, I am considering joining the military after high school, but I'm curious about how family factors into this decision. Does the military provide any assistance with childcare costs during deployment? I don't have kids yet but I'd like to understand the full picture.
Yes, the military does offer assistance with childcare costs. Depending on the branch you're in, there are different options available.
One of the most common is the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN) program. This offers subsidized child care for service members who do not have access to on-installation child care. The subsidy is based on total family income, similar to what you'd see in civilian programs, so the benefits very much depend on your own financial situation.
Moreover, Department of Defense-operated Child Development Centers (CDCs) are also present on many military installations worldwide. These centers offer full-day, part-day and hourly care for children of active duty or activated Reserve or Guard members. Rates at these centers are also typically based on family income.
Lastly, many military bases also have Family Child Care (FCC) programs. These are in-home childcare services provided by licensed military spouses. FCC homes offer a safe, nurturing environment and have a low child-to-provider ratio.
It's important to remember that while assistance is provided, availability and costs can vary greatly by location and individual circumstances, so it's always advisable to research the specific benefits available in your chosen branch of the military and potential duty station. Also, note that there may be waiting lists for these services, particularly in high-demand areas.
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