Military Family Community News - Idaho

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we remember.
We remember the men and women who gave everything in service to our country.
The ones who never made it home.
The families forever changed by their sacrifice.
The children who grew up with memories instead of moments.

For many, Memorial Day weekend means gathering with family, firing up the grill, heading to the lake, and enjoying the freedoms we often take for granted. But before the celebrations begin, may we all take a moment to pause and reflect on why this holiday exists in the first place.

Freedom has never been free.

Today, we honor the fallen. We remember their sacrifice. And we hold close the families ⭐️ who carry that loss every single day.

Their sacrifice will never be forgotten...
We remember

05/10/2026

Today, we honor the incredible mothers across our Idaho military community.

To the moms serving in uniform, the military spouses holding things together at home, the mothers supporting from the sidelines, and the women who continue showing up day after day with strength, resilience, and love — we see you, and we appreciate you.

Thank you for the countless sacrifices, quiet moments of encouragement, late nights, early mornings, and unwavering support you give to your families and our force every single day.

From all of us at Idaho National Guard Service Member & Family Support, we wish you a peaceful and well-deserved Mother’s Day. 🌲🇺🇸

05/07/2026

Military Spouse Appreciation Day - Friday, May 8th

On this day we honor the incredible military spouses who serve beside our Service Members every single day.

To the spouses who hold down the home front during deployments, navigate uncertainty, support careers that demand flexibility, and continue showing up for their families and communities — thank you.

You are the quiet strength behind the force, and your support plays an important role in the readiness and well-being of our military community.

In recognition of Military Spouse Appreciation Day, the Idaho National Guard J9 Service Member & Family Support invites military spouses to connect with their nearest Military & Family Readiness Specialist office.

Military spouses are encouraged to register for a special J9 Military Spouse Appreciation bundle featuring military family resources, support information, J9 swag items, and a few thoughtfully selected items assembled in appreciation of our military spouses and all they do in support of the force.
Register Here: https://www.cognitoforms.com/IdahoSMFS/_2026MilitarySpouseAppreciation

You can find your nearest MFRS location at the link below or by visiting our website or scanning the link below: https://www.imd.idaho.gov/idaho-national-guard/family-programs/

We hope you’ll stop in, say hello, and allow us the opportunity to thank you in person for the important role you play in supporting Idaho’s Service Members, families, and mission readiness.

05/06/2026

The May Military & Family Readiness Update is live!

This month’s newsletter includes:
• Military Spouse Appreciation Month
• Mental Health Awareness Month resources
• Statewide events & activities
• Food box support information
• Resource spotlights
• and more!

We’re proud to continue supporting Idaho’s Service Members, families, retirees, veterans, and volunteers through resources that strengthen readiness, resiliency, and connection across our communities.

View the full update here:

Email from Service Member & Family Support Important Updates, Statewide Events, Child Care, and More! The IDNG J9 - Service Member & Family Support's mission is to link resources with needs and streng

05/06/2026

The 2026 National Guard Bureau Needs Assessment survey is now live, and we’re asking for your support in helping us gather valuable feedback from across the Idaho National Guard community. This survey will be distributed to all Service Members and their Family Members and plays a critical role in shaping the future of programs, resources, and support services.

Your input matters—by taking a few minutes to complete the survey, you directly contribute to strengthening the support systems that serve our military population. We look forward to surpassing last year’s participation and ensuring every voice is heard.

Complete the survey here: https://forms.osi.apps.mil/r/cYJZ4AzUF7

05/05/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a reminder that taking care of yourself is part of staying mission ready.

The Military & Family Life Counseling (MFLC) Program offers confidential, non-medical support for service members and families navigating life’s challenges.

Join the upcoming virtual sessions and take advantage of this valuable resource—you are not alone.

05/05/2026

Balancing drill, training, and family life isn’t always easy—but you don’t have to do it alone.

The Upwards Child Care Program offers free child care for eligible Army National Guard families during drill weekends and Annual Training. It’s one more way we’re working to support you and your family behind the scenes.

Check out the flyer and scan the QR code to get started. If you have questions or need assistance, reach out to your Military & Family Readiness Specialist—we’re here to help.

Additional info here: https://upwards.com/benefits/military

04/22/2026

Veterans: Feed Your Family, Grow Your Community.

University of Idaho Extension is launching Harvest Heroes 2026 in Boise. The Harvest Heroes Program brings Military Veterans and their families together to learn hands-on how to grow, harvest and market urban agriculture products in real time by spending a season growing together on a community farm.

Join for a free info session on Saturday, May 2 at Spaulding Ranch, 3805 N Cole Road in Boise, for family friendly hands-on workshops and tours.

This event is a FREE Information session for veterans and family members to learn about the program and to join in a morning of family-friendly mini farming and gardening workshops and tours of the site. Workshops include starting seeds at home, growing microgreens, choosing and planting cover crops, and fruit tree care.

No experience required, but please register so we know how many to plan for: https://bit.ly/HHDay2026

01/17/2026

Changes coming to Idaho SNAP beginning February 15 - see the link in the below post for more info

Changes Coming to Idaho SNAP (Food Stamps)

Starting Feb. 15, 2026, candy and soda will no longer be eligible for purchase.
https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/food-assistance/snap-candy-and-soda-restrictions

01/17/2026

Discover • Learn • Develop • Acquire

What makes MSLDP stand out from other leadership trainings? Here are four key objectives to our learning modules that will teach you how to lead with confidence!

Applications are due by Feb. 6. Seats are limited, so don't delay!
The spring 2026 cohort of MSLDP is proudly sponsored by USAA

Harvard University