Philip Morris International (PMI) USA has introduced a new report titled “At Home Front: Addressing the Needs of US Military Spouses,” which sheds light on the often-ignored challenges that military spouses and partners experience.
These individuals are the hidden backbone of military families, offering unwavering support to service members and veterans. However, this often comes at a significant personal cost, as numerous home front heroes encounter obstacles that complicate their lives more than necessary.
Military spouses frequently remain in the background, yet their struggles are not adequately recognized. The report emphasizes how these partners serve as anchors for military families, handling frequent moves, long separations, and frequently sacrificing their career aspirations.
The burden of military spouses is highlighted in the survey findings. With unemployment rates hitting 21%, which is five times higher than the national average, and typically lower wages, these spouses face a tough financial reality. Many also grapple with joblessness, often earning about 25% less than their similarly qualified counterparts.
For those transitioning from military life, the challenges persist. Veteran spouses are essential in helping their partners deal with post-service issues such as PTSD, injuries, and other lasting impacts of military life, providing crucial support in more ways than one.
These obstacles result in emotional and financial strain for the entire family.
In an effort to address these issues, PMI US is actively working to raise awareness and offer assistance. The company has teamed up with organizations like the Elizabeth Doll Foundation and the Veterans Spouse Network, which funds nonprofits aimed at helping military spouses, with a commitment to donate over $3 million in 2024.
Additionally, PMI plans to outline a path for policymakers and employers to better assist these families. Starting in 2025, the company intends to recruit active and veteran spouses for carefully selected roles at US military bases, offering flexible, family-friendly job opportunities.
As one spokesperson noted, “We’ve listened to military families and advocacy groups to learn how employers and policymakers can do more.”
PMI US will also contribute to local partners who can broaden their services by supplying career support such as job networking and coaching. The organization aims to adapt its support model to meet the evolving needs of military families.
Another critical point raised in the report is the increase in smoking rates among military spouses and veterans, with between 15-17% of military spouses exceeding the national average.
In response, PMI is pursuing its goal of creating a smoke-free future by providing alternatives that could help decrease smoking within the military community.
By emphasizing the significant roles of military spouses, PMI US hopes to inspire meaningful reforms in how these families receive support.
