AFAF needs support

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shane M. Phipps
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Since its inception, the Air Force has embraced a strong sense of community by promoting programs aimed at taking care of its Airmen.

One such program, The Air Force Assistance Fund, is set to receive donations from MHAFB personnel Feb. 4 through March 15.

"The AFAF is the umbrella to four charitable affiliates -- the Air Force Village, the Air Force Aid Society, the Air Force Enlisted Village and the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation," said 2nd Lt. Chelsea Brincka, 366th Contracting Squadron contract manager and AFAF instillation project officer. "The AFAF campaign is an annual, on-the-job fundraising appeal conducted to meet the needs of past and present Air Force personnel along with their families."

The aid offered by the AFAF comes in a variety of ways and its importance is common knowledge among base leadership.

"Beyond the support to the retirees and widows, the AFAF is a conduit to the Air Force Aid Society, which provides direct assistance routinely through 'Give Parents a Break,' Bundles for Babies' and 'Heart Link,' as well as supports our Airmen," explained Chief Master Sgt. Geoff Weimer, 366th Fighter Wing command chief. "No matter how careful we plan, life can bring unexpected challenges for which we are unprepared, and AFAF can act as a safety net in times of need."

Programs like the AFAF are essential to maintaining the community atmosphere Airmen enjoy today.

"These charities take donations and, by stretching the value of each dollar, assist our extended and adopted family members in ways that would be impossible to do on our own," said Brincka. "Whether it's providing housing to surviving spouses, granting an interest-free emergency loan to help a single parent pay the heating bill or assisting in the purchase of a much needed prosthetic, the AFAF gives peace-of-mind to our families and friends."

Those involved with the campaign urge all military members to think of their brothers and sisters in-arms, past and present.

"Our choice of career comes with sacrifices - missed birthdays, anniversaries and graduations but that should not mean those we care about do without life's necessities," stated Brincka. "Solving today's problems can't be left to the future. Collectively, we can meet the needs of our Air Force family."

In the past, the 366th FW has reached its goal, and campaign leaders are confident it will again.

"The MHAFB 2013 goal is $62,125, and last year we raised $67,386, so I know we can do it," said Brincka.

The numerous ways to donate to the AFAF make contributing to a positive cause effortless for any interested.

"Everyone on base, including non-military retirees and civilians can donate through payroll deduction plan allotments, cash or checks," said Brincka.

All personnel are encouraged to look into their hearts as well as their wallets and give what they can afford.

"We just ask that everyone try to donate something, even if they can only afford a minimal amount, every bit counts," said Master Sgt. Kari Boyles, 366th Aerospace Medicine Squadron superintendant.

You can learn more about these charities and the campaign by researching online or asking your squadron representatives for more information.