MCAS BEAUFORT, S.C. -- Marine Corps Community Services offers a Hearts Apart deployment support group, open to all military spouses who are experiencing or will experience a deployed Marine or sailor.
"We get out the word on various resources available for spouses to help them effectively get through a deployment and reestablish themselves afterward," said Ashley McCartney, MCCS readiness and deployment support trainer.
Guest speakers such as members from the American Red Cross are also invited to provide information to spouses such as natural disaster preparation and emergency contact numbers needed when trying to contact a deployed spouse.
Hearts Apart meetings continue throughout the year for all spouses to attend despite if squadrons are deployed.
"Many spouses here have met their friends through the support group and new members are always encouraged to visit us during our meetings," said McCartney, a native of Richmond, Ind.
Spouses can also utilize Military OneSource, an organization who informs military families on resources available such as help with taxes, continuing an education as a spouse and deployment advice.
"A lot of spouses here experience similar problems in the same situation, which makes it a great place to get advice and connect with others," said MaryAnn Tarr, Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 spouse and native of Joplin, Mo.
Childcare providers are also available at the meetings to give parents an opportunity to socialize in a less stressful environment.
The support group meets from 10 a.m. to noon every Friday at the Marine Corps Family Team Building House located on Laurel Bay at 487 Laurel Bay Blvd.
For more information about the Hearts Apart deployment support group contact Marine Corps Family Team Building at 228-6141 or Ashley McCartney at 228-7311.