In many states 4-H'ers participate in a program known as Operation Military Kid. We focus mainly on the youth, but are aware that the kids are a part of a whole family, and offer as much support as we can. On post, families tend to support each other, and have ready made networks. The challenge is all the families who live off post/base, and families of Reservists. We often don't know who they are. There are free summer and weekend camps all over the country, and a few international, for the kids. Mentoring, transportation so the remaining spouse can work and the kids can still participate in dance and sport activities and get to the dentist. In your case, yes, we even fix people up with a volunteer handyman/woman. (Sorry, we draw the line with snugglers.)
If anyone would like to participate, as a giver or a receiver, of these services, contact your local Extension office. Training will be provided to volunteers. A car sticker saying, "We Support Our Troops", will have more meaning when you actually get out and help the family too.
Nearly 60 years ago, my dad read aloud a short blip in a Reader's Digest about the benefit of having a cup of coffee with a neighbor. The statistics supported the fact that a casual chat with a neighbor was more helpful than time spent with a psychiatric professional. I think this board may be a version of that neighborly chat. Anyone ready for more coffee, tea, chocolates? Too early in the day for wine? How about a splash of Kahlua in that coffee?