What is Navy EFM Respite Care?

Caring for children with special needs is full time job which is physically and emotionally challenging. EFM Respite Care provides parents the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate with peace of mind, knowing their children will be well cared for. The Navy EFM Respite Care program is available to eligible families as one of the Navy Child and Youth delivery systems of care to support families through the Give Parents A Break services to offer respite services. The program is available to Navy families who have a child enrolled in the Navy Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) and meet the prescribed eligibility criteria. The program is available throughout the United States.

What is included in Navy EFM Respite Care?

Eligible families receive:

  • 40 hours of respite care per family per month;
  • Respite care provided by well-trained and background screened providers who are monitored by the local partner agencies; and
  • Respite care services in the family’s home, a family child care home or an off-base child care center by approved providers.

Who is eligible for EFM Respite Care?

Navy families will be eligible for the EFM Respite Care if the following criteria have been met:

  • The Sailor is active duty or Reservist on active duty orders.
  • The Sailor is currently enrolled in the Navy’s Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).
  • The Sailor has a child currently residing with him/her, enrolled in EFMP, birth through 18 years, and assigned category 4 or 5.

How is a family’s EFMP enrollment verified?

A family’s eligibility is verified through an EFMP Enrollment Letter the Sailor can download from the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) which confirms the child’s EFMP enrollment, category and next update. If a family is unable to access NFAAS, please contact the local EFMP Liaison for assistance.

How do I access information about Navy EFM Respite Care?

Navy families can:

Please be advised that Navy EFM Respite Care is not an entitlement program and is subject to the availability of funds through the Navy CYP.