Relocating to JB Charleston?
Moving to a new duty station can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The Joint Base Charleston Military & Family Readiness Center offers relocation resources, newcomer information, and local community guidance to help you and your family settle in successfully. Explore our relocation page for tools, contacts, and support to make your transition smoother.
👉 Visit the Relocation Page
Commander's Key Support Program
The Commander’s Key Support Program is a volunteer Airman, Guardian, federal employee and/or family member selected by unit leadership to provide peer support, information, and resources to Air Force families, enhancing resilience and readiness within the community.
Click HERE to request more information about becoming a Key Support Liaison.
Ombudsman
A Navy Ombudsman is a volunteer spouse appointed by a commanding officer to serve as a liaison between the command and Navy families, providing support, information, and resources to enhance family readiness and morale.
Click HERE to request more information about becoming an Ombudsman.
My Navy Family
Support & Resources
New Parent Resources
Explore trusted resources designed to support new and expecting parents through every stage—from pregnancy to postpartum—offering guidance, connection, and essential services to help your family thrive.
Offers a variety of supportive services for new and expecting parents, including parenting classes, fatherhood preparation courses, and the Beginning with Mother Goose program to promote early bonding and development through reading and interaction. Participants can earn “baby bucks” to purchase essential items such as clothing, diapers, and baby equipment. Car seat safety checks are also available to help ensure child safety.
Call 843-553-3505
Provides emergency assistance to families in need, offering essential baby items such as diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food. Services are available during designated distribution hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:00–4:00 PM.
Call 843-553-3505
A Self Care Circle for Moms
A free, informal monthly support group designed to give moms a space to relax, connect, and recharge through crafts and conversation. Nursing and small children are welcome, and participants can request lactation and therapy consultations for additional support. Advance registration is required.
Contact: Jordanne Hammer
Call: 843-212-7106
A nonprofit organization supporting mothers across the Charleston Tri-County area who are experiencing maternal mental health challenges, including postpartum depression and anxiety. Services include care packages for newly postpartum families, peer support groups, mentorship opportunities, and access to additional resources designed to promote emotional well-being and recovery.
Contact: 843-410-3585
Women’s Reproductive Behavioral Health
Supports the mental health and well-being of women and families by connecting them to trusted, vetted resources across South Carolina. This program provides guidance and support during pregnancy and postpartum periods, helping individuals navigate emotional challenges and access appropriate care.
Pairs first-time moms with a registered nurse early in pregnancy, providing ongoing guidance and support through pregnancy and until the child turns two. This free program focuses on healthy pregnancies, child development, and long-term family stability.
Food Resources
Access a variety of local food assistance programs designed to support Service members, veterans, and families with reliable, no-cost resources to help meet everyday nutritional needs.
Fresh Food Box Program
Provides families with access to fresh food boxes through scheduled community distributions. The monthly calendar outlines registration and pickup dates—be sure to register by the date listed in red to be eligible for pickup on the date listed in green. This is a great resource for families looking to supplement their household with fresh, nutritious food.
Monthly Food Distribution
Supports Service members and veterans in the Charleston area by providing approximately 75 lbs of groceries at no cost each month. Eligible individuals must register monthly to participate. Distributions are held every 2nd Tuesday from 9:30–11:30 AM at the Elks Lodge. This is a valuable resource for those seeking consistent food assistance and support.
Provides multiple no-cost food distribution programs, including Mobile Pantry, Fresh for All, and Fresh Xpress, to support individuals and families in need across the Lowcountry. For those unable to attend a distribution, “Buddy Boxes” are available for pickup to help ensure access to essential food resources.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutrition support for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding individuals, as well as children under age 5 who are identified as at nutritional risk. Military families in the Lowcountry can receive assistance through virtual appointments with the regional WIC coordinator, who helps guide applicants through the enrollment process and available benefits.
WIC Coordinator: Rosalind Connell
Call: 843-529-9301 or 803-759-3007
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Provides monthly financial assistance to eligible individuals and families to purchase groceries. Benefits can be used at most grocery stores and farmers markets to help support consistent access to food.
Delivers nutritious meals to individuals who are unable to shop or prepare food for themselves, helping ensure consistent access to healthy meals and support within the community.
Deployment Support
Support & Resources
Child & Youth Services
Safe, high-quality care and early education for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Staffed by trained professionals to support your child’s growth while you serve.
Helping families with children who have medical or educational needs by connecting them with support, services, and community resources.
Certified, home-based childcare in a nurturing environment—ideal for shift workers or families with more than one child.
Assists families with school transitions, enrollment, and finding the best-fit education options both on and off base.
After-school activities, sports, camps, and clubs that help kids and teens grow in confidence, leadership, and creativity.
Air & Space Forces Aid Society (AFAS)
Supporting Air and Space Force families through financial assistance programs designed to reduce stress and enhance family readiness.
Child Care for PCS
Relocating can be stressful—especially with children. The Air & Space Forces Aid Society offers financial assistance to help cover child care costs during a PCS move, giving families added flexibility and support during this transition.
Give Parents a Break (GPAB)
Life gets busy—GPAB provides short-term child care assistance for eligible families facing unique challenges or needing temporary relief. This program helps ease stress while ensuring children are cared for in a safe, supportive environment.
Child Car Seat & Booster Seat Program
Safety comes first. This program provides financial assistance to help eligible families purchase a car seat or booster seat, ensuring children are properly secured and protected while traveling.
Bundles for Babies Program
Welcoming a new baby? This program offers expectant and new parents valuable education and a financial boost to help with essential baby items. Participants attend a class through the M&FRC and receive assistance to support their growing family.
Financial Lift-Off Program
Take control of your financial future with this free, self-paced online course designed for Airmen and Guardians. Financial Lift-Off provides practical tools for budgeting, saving, and managing debt—helping you build strong, lifelong money management skills.
Employment & Education Benefits
🔍 Job Search & Career Development
Your one-stop shop for local job openings, career fairs, and hiring events curated by the Military & Family Readiness Center.
24/7 expert support—including resume reviews, career coaching, and transition tools—tailored for military life.
The Military Spouse Career Accelerator Program is a paid, 12-week fellowship that connects eligible military spouses with private-sector employers for hands-on experience and job offers.
The Military Spouse Education & Career Opportunities is a robust career platform just for spouses—offering job tools, career coaching, and professional development resources.
Each branch offers local employment assistance through its installation support center.
👉 Find Your Local Program (Search your base, then click “Employment” under Services)
Spouses can connect with certified career coaches for help with job applications, interview prep, and resume writing.
🎓 Education & Certification Programs
Eligible spouses can receive up to $4,000 for licenses, certifications, or associate degrees that support portable careers.
Earn your Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC®) certification for free! This fellowship empowers spouses with portable, career-ready financial skills.
Resources, tuition assistance programs, and financial aid info for students pursuing higher education within South Carolina.
PCS’ing? Use this DoD tool to research licensing requirements and reimbursement info by state.
ID Cards & DEERS Service
- Initial Enrollment in DEERS: A spouse must be officially entered into DEERS before they can receive a military ID. Bring a marriage certificate, birth certificate, photo ID, and the sponsor’s presence or a signed DD Form 1172-2.
- Dependent Children IDs: Children under 10 usually do not need an ID unless in specific custody or medical situations.
- Lost or Expired IDs: Replacements require 2 forms of valid ID for adults, and dependent children may require documentation based on age or situation.
- Remote/Deployed Sponsors: If the sponsor is not available in person, a notarized DD Form 1172-2 or a digital signature via ID Card Office Online may be used.
- Name Changes: Spouses who have changed their name (due to marriage, divorce, etc.) must bring official documentation to update DEERS before a new ID can be issued.
The official office for military ID card issuance, DEERS enrollment/updates, and CAC services for eligible service members, spouses, and dependents.
📍 Walk-ins may be limited. Appointments are strongly encouraged.
Handles military personnel record updates, ID card eligibility questions, reissuance, and guidance on required documentation. Especially helpful for resolving unique ID or DEERS issues.
Upcoming Base Events & Workshops
Click on the flyer to learn more or register.
Explore Charleston
Whether you’re new to the Lowcountry or just looking for something fun to do, Charleston has something for everyone! From historic downtown strolls and waterfront dining to beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions, there’s no shortage of charm and adventure. Check out our curated list of visitor websites to help you make the most of your time here!
Places to Eat in Charleston
- Saltwater Cowboys
- Vickery’s Bar & Grill
- Home Team BBQ
- Poe’s Tavern
- Sesame Burgers
- California Dreaming
- The Tatooed Moose
- Swig & Swine BBQ
- Lewis Barbecue
- The Glass Onion
- 82 Queen
- Hyman’s Seafood
- Charleston Crab House
- The CODfather
- LoLA
- Magnolias
- The Establishment
- Chubby Fish
- Ellis Creek Fish Camp
- Poogan’s Porch
- Okras Grill
- Early Bird Diner
- The Grit Counter
- Rudy Royale
- Iron Rose
- Ms. Rose’s Fine Food & Cocktails
- Hannibal’s Kitchen
- Port of Call
- The Swamp Fox Restaurant
- East Side Soul Food
- Saffron Restaurant & Bakery
- Muse Restaurant & Wine Bar
- Chez Nous Restaurant
- Fire Street Food
- Naan
- Indaco
- Azur
- Xiao Bao Biscuit
- Frannie & The Fox
- Pink Bellies
- Taco Bay
- Ruru’s
Low Country Bucket List
- Run the Cooper Bridge Run 10K
- South Carolina Aquarium
- Cypress Gardens and Trails
- Charleston Golf
- Guided Nature Tours
- Brave a Charleston Ghost Tour
- Stroll Down Rainbow Row
- Visit Magnolia Gardens Plantation
- America’s First Museum
- Old City Market Downtown
- The Charleston Festival
Wind: 4mph NNW
Humidity: 73%
Pressure: 30.27"Hg
UV index: 0
64°F
66°F
68°F
72°F
82°F / 61°F
82°F / 64°F
82°F / 63°F
81°F / 59°F