The Department of the Air Force contracts with Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) to administer the DAF Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Respite Care Program. This program is available as a benefit to Air Force and Space Force families who have a child enrolled in the DAF Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) and meet the prescribed eligibility criteria. Caring for children with special needs is full time job which can be physically and emotionally challenging. The EFMP Respite Care Program provides parents the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate with peace of mind, knowing their children will be well cared for.
Please be advised that the DAF EFMP Respite Care Program is not an entitlement program and is subject to the availability of funds.
DAF EFMP Respite Care Parent Flyer
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Where is the program available?
Answer: DAF EFMP Respite Care is available throughout the United States.
- Who is eligible for EFMP Respite Care?
Answer: DAF families will be eligible for the EFMP Respite Care Program if the following criteria have been met:
- The Sponsor is active duty or Guard/Reservist on active duty orders.
- The Sponsor is currently enrolled in the DAF’s Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).
- The Sponsor has a child currently residing with him/her, birth through 18 years, who is enrolled in EFMP, and scored at either of the two highest levels-of-need (LON 3 or 4).
- What is included in DAF Respite Care?
Answer: Eligible families receive:
- An authorized allotment of respite care per family per month based on the child’s level of need;
- Respite care provided by well-trained and background-screened providers who are monitored by 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.
- What if I have additional questions about the EFMP Respite Care Program?
Answer: You may email EFMPRespiteCare@usa.childcareaware.org or call 1-800-424-2246 extension 318.
- Where is the program available?
- Parents, please follow the steps below:
- Confirm your eligibility for EFMP Respite Care. All Sponsors interested in EFMP Respite Care must first enroll in the DAF Exceptional Family Member Program and be assigned a level of need 3 or 4. If you have not begun this process, contact your local EFMP Family Support Coordinator (FSC).
- If you already have your level of need letter, or are unsure who you need to contact, you may reach out to CCAoA by email EFMPRespiteCare@usa.childcareaware.org or call 1-800-424-2246 x318. A specialist will walk you through the process of verifying you are eligible for Respite services.
- DAF Respite Care Providers, please follow the steps below:
If you are interested in becoming a respite care provider, you can review the eligibility requirements here.
