Blue Star Families Launches New Hampton Roads Chapter to Support Military and Veteran Families Across the Region

HAMPTON ROADS, VIRGINIA — Blue Star Families, the nation’s largest military and veteran family support organization, continues its chapter expansion strategy by launching its newest location in Hampton Roads, Virginia — home to one of the largest concentrations of active-duty military personnel in the world. Twenty percent of the general population in Hampton Roads is military-connected, and there are more than 118,000 military dependents in the region. The chapter will create and utilize resources to connect military and veteran families with their community, creating a sense of belonging.

As the 14th Blue Star Families Chapter nationwide, this expansion is a key part of the organization’s broader mission to empower military and veteran families by fostering strong, supportive communities.

The opening of the chapter comes at a critical time to support military families. While 45% of Americans believe the public truly supports military families’ sacrifices, just 19% of active-duty families agree, according to Blue Star Families’ recent Military Family Lifestyle Survey.

“Hampton Roads is unlike anywhere else in America,” said Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet. “In one of the nation’s most concentrated military communities, the need for connection and support is clear and urgent. As global demands grow — reflected in deployments like the USS Gerald R. Ford, the longest since the Vietnam War — we know military families are carrying more than ever. They need to feel seen, supported, and connected, and we’re answering that call. We are proud to open this chapter and expand our work in a place where strengthening military families directly strengthens our national security. By investing here — building trusted relationships, expanding access to resources, and fostering a strong sense of belonging — we reinforce the foundation that keeps service members mission-ready.”

The Hampton Roads Chapter will serve a region that includes the cities and communities of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Poquoson, and James City County, as well as the surrounding areas of York County, Isle of Wight County, and Gloucester County. The chapter will bring in-person support addressing challenges such as food and economic insecurity, spouse career growth, and caregiver support, and will work to bridge the military-civilian divide across this expansive and diverse region.

The launch of the Hampton Roads Chapter is part of Blue Star Families’ larger national expansion strategy, ensuring more military families have access to essential resources and a sense of belonging in their communities. With continued investment and partnerships, the organization plans to enhance its programs, expand its reach, and deepen its impact in military-dense regions across the country.

“I’m truly excited to bring this new chapter to life in a community where military families are deeply woven into daily life, said Paula Moran, Hampton Roads Executive Director. “My focus is simple: show up, listen well, and help build the kind of support network that makes a real difference for those who serve and their loved ones.”

###

About Blue Star Families

Blue Star Families (BSF) is the nation’s largest military and veteran family support organization. Its research-driven approach builds strong communities with a focus on human-centered design and innovative solutions. A “blue star family” is the family of a currently serving military member, including active duty, National Guard, Reserve forces, and those transitioning out of service. Since its founding in 2009, BSF has delivered more than $336 million in benefits and impacts more than 1.5 million people annually through an expansive network of chapters and outposts. For more information, click here.