Every April, we pause to celebrate some of the most resilient, adaptable, and inspiring members of the Military community—the children. The Month of the Military Child is a special time to recognize the sacrifices and unique challenges faced by the children of Service Members. These young heroes often endure frequent moves, long deployments, and the day-to-day uncertainties of Military life. Soldiers’ Angels honors them by providing hands-on support through our volunteers and programs.

The Significance of the Month of the Military Child

Established in 1986 by then-Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger, Month of the Military Child shines a spotlight on the crucial role Military children play within the Armed Forces community. It’s an opportunity for Military families, Service Members, and civilians alike to come together in appreciation of the resilience and strength these children demonstrate.

One of the standout events during the month is Purple Up! Day, typically celebrated in mid-April. On this day, people across the nation wear purple to show support for Military kids. The color purple symbolizes all branches of the military—combining Army green, Navy blue, Air Force blue, Marine red, and Coast Guard blue—highlighting the unity of the armed forces and their families. Classroom activities, workplace celebrations, and even wearing a simple purple outfit all send a clear message: we see and value Military kids.

How Soldiers’ Angels Supports Military Children

At Soldiers’ Angels, we recognize the challenges Military children face and actively support these young heroes through a variety of programs.

Baby Showers for Expecting Military Families

Many Military families feel overwhelmed when starting or growing a family—especially during deployment or when they’re far from extended family support. Soldiers’ Angels hosts Virtual Baby Showers to help ease this burden. Through this program, volunteers uplift expecting Military families by sending baby essentials, thoughtful gifts, and heartfelt well wishes—ensuring new parents feel celebrated, cared for, and connected, no matter where they’re stationed. Ultimately, these showers not only provide much-needed supplies but also remind Military families that they are not alone.

For Veteran families, Soldiers’ Angels volunteers host “Drive Thru” and in-person Baby Showers at select locations. We invite expecting mothers to join us in celebrating their bundle of joy. Veterans receive essentials, thoughtful gifts, and sometimes even big-ticket items like car seats and strollers—thanks to our generous donors.

Adopt-A-Family: Holiday Joy for Military kids

The holiday season can be particularly challenging for Military families, especially those facing financial hardship or dealing with deployment. Soldiers’ Angels Adopt-A-Family program steps in to ensure that no Military child goes without holiday cheer. Volunteers “adopt” families and provide them with gift cards for their holiday meals and gifts for the children. This program relieves stress from Military parents and allows them to focus on making memories with their children.

Purple Up! Day

We also celebrate Purple Up! Day at our headquarters and at the VA Hospitals we serve. However, while our volunteers don’t typically plan specific activities, we proudly participate in community events to show our support and raise awareness.

How You Can Help

Supporting Military children during the Month of the Military Child—and year-round—is simple yet impactful. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Wear purple on Purple Up! Day and encourage your workplace, school, or community group to join in.
• Volunteer or donate to Soldiers’ Angels programs like Virtual Baby Showers and Adopt-A-Family. Get started as a volunteer here.
• Spread awareness on social media and in your community about the unique challenges Military children face and how organizations like Soldiers’ Angels are making a difference.

This April, let’s make sure the youngest members of our Military community feel the love, appreciation, and support they deserve. Together, we can honor their sacrifices and remind them they are never forgotten.

---