You are not alone

  • Published
  • By Airman Samuel Anderson
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  The base Airmen and Family Readiness Center offers more than 70 programs for those who have a deployed spouse.

Master Sgt. Ebony Stepp, 366th Force Support Squadron readiness noncommissioned officer, says the programs are offered to help support the spouses.

"We are here to provide the service that can help the loved ones get through the separation process," she said. "Whether it is childcare or trying to find the right program for them, we will help them."

With the most recent deployment of more than 400 Airmen from around the wing, the center is ready for anything.

"The programs we offer give the deployed Airmen a little piece of mind," said Master Sgt. Stepp. "The deployed member knows their family will be taken care of during the deployment so they can concentrate on the task at hand. This in turn enhances the mission and deployment for both the Air Force and MHAFB."

The A&FRC has three specific programs to help spouses overcome the problems they may incur during a deployment. These programs include the Readiness Emergency Sleeping Tool, Car Care Because We Care and Give Parents a Break.

- REST - with this program, a family or spouse's picture will be taken and transferred onto a personalized pillowcase at no cost. Call the center for an appointment to have a picture taken or for more information.

- Car Care Because We Care - spouses will receive free oil and filter change and safety check, paid for by Air Force Aid. The spouse may come into the A&FRC, show his or her Identification card and receive a certificate for this service at Auto Pride. These certificates must be used within 30 days of issue.

- Give Parents A Break - This child-care program is an Air Force Aid funded program that provides eight hours of childcare at the Child Development Center or Youth Center, depending on the child's age. This is usually done the second Saturday of each month. Certificates are available at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

The center also has programs designed specifically for children. Steven Wright, 366th FSS community readiness technician and casualty affairs officer, says that in addition to providing resiliency programs during deployments, the center also offers programs to enhance family relationships.

"We have a variety of handouts available for children that also strengthen children's resilience before, during and after the deployment," he said. "In addition to these services we offer a variety of classes for the spouse and deployed member that focus on strengthening family relationships and resilience."

Since basic training, it has been engrained into an Airmen's mind to never leave an Airman behind and to be a good wingman. The Airman and Family Readiness Center provides programs to where both concepts are accomplished.

"We want to empower our families to be self sufficient, independent, and to be comfortable enough to utilize resources/agencies available when they need help," said Mr. Wright. "This directly correlates with the wing and AF wingman concept by creating a strong sense of community that supports all Gunfighter families not only during deployments, but anytime there is a family need."

For more information on any of these programs check out the monthly newsletter, the Gunfighter calendar, or contact the Airmen and Family Readiness Center at 828-2458.