Adjusting to Life in Augusta: Tips for Military Families
Relocating to a new city can be a challenge, especially for military families. For those stationed at Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) or other nearby bases, moving to Augusta, Georgia, means adjusting to a new community, lifestyle, and environment. Whether you’re an active duty service member, a military spouse, or part of the National Guard, settling into Augusta requires patience, planning, and a good understanding of local resources. Below, we offer some essential tips for Augusta military families to transition smoothly into their new lives.
Explore Community Resources for Military Families
Augusta is home to many organizations and services that provide support for military families. From helping military children transition to new schools to offering employment and education assistance for family members, the city ensures your family feels welcomed and connected.
Military OneSource: This is a fantastic resource for active duty service members and their families. The program offers 24/7 support, counseling, and relocation assistance to help with the many challenges of frequent moves.
Fort Eisenhower: On base, you’ll find a variety of community resources like family readiness groups, education support, and healthcare services that cater to the needs of military personnel and their families.
Make Friends and Build a Support Network
One of the best ways to adjust to military life in Augusta is by building relationships. Forming connections with neighbors and other military families is key to feeling more at home. Military relocation can often feel isolating, but Augusta’s strong military community ensures you don’t have to adjust alone.
Join a Military Support Group: There are numerous local organizations where military families can meet others facing similar challenges. For example, Military Family Support Group holds regular events and activities aimed at fostering connections among military family members.
Attend Community Events: Augusta hosts a variety of family-friendly events year-round. Participating in local parades, festivals, or community gatherings is a great way to meet new people and introduce your children to the local culture.
Get Involved in Local Schools
For military children, changing schools can be one of the toughest parts of relocation. Fortunately, Augusta’s school system and the surrounding Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) are well-equipped to help ease the transition for military families. The Richmond County School System offers special programs to support military children and ensure they’re receiving the best education possible.
School Liaison Officer: Every base has a School Liaison Officer (SLO) who acts as the connection between military parents and local schools. The SLO will help you find the right school for your child and explain the options for public schools or private institutions in the area.
Tutoring and After-School Programs: Many schools in Augusta offer extra services for military children like tutoring and after-school activities to help them catch up if they’ve missed any school due to relocation.
Tuition Assistance: For older military children or family members pursuing higher education, Georgia offers tuition assistance programs for military personnel. Additionally, South Carolina colleges and universities may offer similar programs for those living near the state border.
Take Advantage of Military Benefits
One significant advantage of relocating as part of the armed forces is the wide array of benefits and programs offered to military families. Augusta is no exception, with resources that cater specifically to service members and their families.
Property Tax Exemptions: Georgia offers property tax exemptions to veterans and active duty service members who are residents of the state. These exemptions can help military personnel save on housing costs and other expenses.
Veterans’ Benefits: Augusta is home to the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, a full-service hospital that caters to retired service members and those who have served in the military. This facility provides everything from medical care to mental health support, ensuring veterans receive top-notch treatment close to home.
Navigate Transportation and Local Amenities
Settling into a new city means figuring out the local transportation and amenities. Augusta has a range of transportation services and community facilities that make life easier for military families.
Public Transportation: Augusta has a reliable public transit system with bus routes that cover most of the city. This is helpful for military family members who may not have access to a car, ensuring they can easily travel to schools, jobs, or the base.
Emergency Services: Augusta is well-prepared with emergency services that are quick and responsive. If you or a family member needs medical attention or assistance, both on-base and local emergency personnel are ready to help.
Discover Family-Friendly Activities
One of the best ways to adjust to your new life in Augusta is by exploring everything the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural events, or just relaxing with the family, Augusta has something for everyone.
Visit Local Parks: The Central Savannah River Area is full of parks and recreation facilities perfect for military families to enjoy. You can spend the weekend hiking, fishing, or picnicking at one of the many local parks.
Explore Augusta’s History: Take some time to explore Augusta’s rich history. You and your family can visit museums, historic landmarks, or take a riverboat tour along the Savannah River. It’s a great way to learn more about your new home and its cultural heritage.
Take Advantage of On-Base Facilities: Fort Eisenhower offers a variety of facilities, including gyms, libraries, and community centers where military families can unwind and enjoy activities together.
Stay Connected with Your Community
Being part of a community is vital for your family’s well-being. Augusta offers numerous opportunities to get involved, meet people, and feel like a true member of the city.
Volunteer Programs: One of the best ways to integrate into the community is by volunteering. Augusta has several volunteer programs specifically geared toward military families. These programs offer everything from tutoring military children to supporting public health initiatives.
Join Social Media Groups: Many military communities have dedicated Facebook or social media groups where members can share resources, tips, and advice. This is a great way to get real-time information from other families who have gone through the same transition.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Augusta as a military family presents its challenges, but with the right tools and resources, the transition can be smooth. From exploring community resources and connecting with other families to understanding local schools and employment options, there are countless ways to make Augusta feel like home. As you adjust to military life in this historic Southern city, you’ll find that Augusta offers everything your family needs for a fulfilling, rewarding experience.
If you’re looking for a new home or need help navigating the Augusta real estate market, reach out to Peter Larson Homes. We specialize in helping military families find the perfect home in Augusta. Contact us today!