Military Family Advisory Network

The Military Family Advisory Network (MFAN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, that connects military-connected families with trusted information, practical resources and local support, while bringing their experiences to the attention of decision-makers. Its work spans family-focused and survey research, data-informed policy analysis, cross-sector collaboration and direct-assistance programme delivery, with research covering eight issue areas: housing, health and well-being, finances, food security, employment, education, transitions and permanent-change-of-station moves. The organisation's research arm includes the Military Family Support Programming Survey and Military Family 360, initiatives that examine where military families need additional support and whose findings guide programming and inform nonprofits, policymakers, military leadership and private-sector partners. Alongside research, MFAN runs the PCS Pantry Restock Program, a direct-assistance effort delivering household essentials and grocery assistance to families arriving at military installations after a permanent change of station. Advisory groups convened by MFAN bring stakeholders together to shape its work and elevate family voices. MFAN describes itself as mission-driven and as combining rigorous research with responsive, practical programming. Its approach is collaborative and cross-sector, working with nonprofits, policymakers, military leadership and private-sector partners, with an emphasis on data-informed, lasting change. The organisation operates across military installations nationwide in the United States.