Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) – Helping Families Who Have Lost a Soldier 5 years ago, the Army saw a need to provide support for military families who have lost a loved one. Still a relatively new Program, the Army Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) was formed in an effort to assist grieving families during the devastating event of the loss of their loved one (soldier). Currently, SOS supports over 5000 families across the state of Texas. The intent of SOS is to be an advocate, liaison, resource and subject matter expert for all things casualty related and maintain the connection with surviving families for as long as needed. Beyond the initial services of the Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO), OSS is essentially long term case management with a heart. The program has developed a welcoming compassionate environment at the Installations and Armories where the SOS Coordinators are located. Families can come for information, assistance, or just to talk to someone who will listen. SOS works with the Army and outside agencies to provide a myriad of support services from financial counseling, education assistance, coordination of grief groups, special events, and activities to bring families together with others who know what it’s like to lose a Soldier. Most of the families simply do not have knowledge of the Army and VA system and need assistance understanding benefits and entitlements. SOS offers guidance, providing options and opportunities to thrive in their new reality. Gaining perspective from others who have been there and professionals in the field we are able to address any issue that may arise reducing the stress of the surviving family member. By facilitating group activities and counseling, families are able to recognize and understand their individual grief process and share these experiences with others. TEXAS Survivor Outreach Services
Posted on: Mon, 05 Aug 2013 18:13:21 +0000