Losing a loved one is an especially difficult time for those left behind by a fallen soldier. In addition to the grief the family will suffer, they will also be faced with several issues and questions about a life built around the Army. Some of these will be addressed immediately by the Casualty Assistance Officer, but some will not surface for many months or years - long after the Casualty Assistance process has ended. Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) can help. SOS is a holistic, multi-agency approach to delivering services specifically to Survivors. We offer a personal touch by providing these services locally, at the garrisons and the communities closest to where the families live. The overall goal of SOS is to epitomize the Army’s solemn commitment to the Families of the Fallen.
The friendly staff at Survivor Outreach Services is here to assist Survivors of Fallen Soldiers with whatever issues they might have. Our mission is...
“To embrace and reassure Survivors that they are continually linked to the Army Family through a unified support program that enables them to remain an important part of the Army Family for as long as they desire.”
- To provide enhanced services to Families of the Fallen.
- To help Survivors cope with the loss of their loved one.
- To improve responsiveness and streamline the assistance process for Families.
- To ensure Survivors have access to all entitled benefits.
Who do we provide services to?
Our clients consist of ANY Primary or Secondary Next-of-Kin of the fallen soldier. Generally, this includes immediate family members (spouses, children, parents), however we may take on other clients on a case-by-case basis.
When do we begin to provide our services?
While there is no fixed time frame at which we must engage a client, our goal is to begin communication with them, at the latest, when their appointed CAO is released. We can, however become involved as early as needed or when requested by the Casualty Assistance Center.
How long are clients eligible for our services?
In short, we will provide our services as long as the surviving family members need us or request our involvement. Clients are eligible no matter the length of time since their loved one has passed on. We strive to be an important part of a surviving family’s support system for many years to come.
Support Coordinators
Support Coordinators are the main points of contact for surviving family members. They will work closely with CAC to ensure a smooth transition for the family after the Casualty Assistance process is completed. They will initiate the new client engagement and will ensure that continuous outreach is provided to the family as long as it is needed or wanted. They function as long term support personnel for the program by coordinating support groups, presenting briefings to the community and leadership, and providing life skills and supportive counseling. They will partner with the Benefits Coordinator and with the CAO to ensure the survivor receives all necessary services.
Support Coordinators provide the following services:
- Local long term case management (supportive counseling; life skills education; support groups)
- Serves as an advocate for eligible beneficiaries and develops a plan of action based on client needs.
- Provides information and referral services for survivors.
- Responsible for linking all phases of the SOS program.
- Develops partnerships with military, civilian and non-governmental agencies to leverage support to survivors.
Financial Counselors are adjunct specialists in the program. They will partner with support coordinators to provide financial and estate planning support and education to surviving family members. This support can be limited in scope or comprehensive depending on the needs of the family. This support will also be provided on an ongoing basis as requested by the family. They will work closely with the Benefits Coordinator and Legal to ensure all financial and estate issues are addressed.
Financial Counselors provide the following services:
- Analyze benefits in context of complete financial picture
- Aid in identifying financial needs and objectives
- Deliver comprehensive financial planning (cash flow/budgeting, risk management, college planning, investments, retirement, estate planning, etc) and education
- Assist in implementing financial recommendations
- Periodically review and reassess financial plan to ensure objectives are met
- Partners with Benefits Coordinator, Financial Readiness, Legal, and RSO to enhance services
download our brochure
Janine Almanza, M.S.W
Support Coordinator
janine.almanza@us.army.mil
Jesús A. Longoria, MS, CFP®
Financial Counselor
jesus.longoria4@us.army.mil
Army Community Service
Bldg. 2494, Ricker Road
Fort Bliss, TX 79916
915.568.1132 (phone)
915.468.4357 (fax)
www.blissmwr.com
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