Framed by a mantle of festive red stockings and a brightly decorated Christmas tree the Quantico Marine Corps Band played upbeat Christmas carols that wafted through Lincoln Military Housing’s main office Dec. 6, 2013.

More than 100 people participated in the annual Exceptional Family Member Program holiday event which, along with the live music, provided dinner and crafts such as making Christmas stockings.

“For us this is so cool because our families are celebrating making it another year,” said Monique O’Neil, EFMP manager speaking of the challenges that many families with special needs dependents face. “Some of our kids are not here this year. We lost some spouses and children [this year].”

For some families, the programs, like the holiday event provide opportunities for all-family outings that may not otherwise be available.

“My son gets left out of so many activities, because they don’t accommodate his specific needs,” said Joyce Phillips, participating mother. “The EFMP does a lot of activities and manages to accommodate so many different needs at each event. It’s just amazing.”

After dinner, the children eagerly encircled the Christmas tree and a volunteer read the Marine version of “A Night Before Christmas,” while parents stood behind, smiles spread across every face.

“The staff is so upbeat and excited and they take into consideration each of the kids and what they need,” said Phillips. “Once you go, everyone is so welcoming, and it’s so fun for the kids.”

The evening ended with children visiting with Santa and families winning prizes.

“It’s more of a support group,” said O’Neil. “It’s networking and overall a celebration.”

For information about upcoming EFMP events visit www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org.

Correspondent: samuel.l.ellis@usmc.mil