HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The annual Air Force Assistance Fund charitable drive begins at Hanscom AFB March 11, with officials here aiming to raise $19,750 this year.
The Air Force Assistance Fund is a Department of the Air Force initiative to aid past and present Airmen, Guardians, and their families facing unexpected challenges and financial hardships.
"Supporting the Air Force Assistance Fund is more than just giving, it’s an investment in the welfare of our Air Force family, and an appreciation for the dedication and service of both current and former members,” said Master Sgt. Luis Veliz, co-project officer at Hanscom AFB.
The fund supports four charities: The Air Force Aid Society, General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation, Air Force Village Charitable Foundation, and the Air Force Enlisted Village.
"These are the four official charities of the Department of the Air Force, which are for Airmen and Guardians, by Airmen and Guardians," said Tech. Sgt. Erick Bartels, co-project officer at Hanscom AFB.
The AFAF accepts donations from military and civilian personnel through various means, including payroll deductions, check contributions, or e-Giving.
Although donors have multiple avenues for contributing, the simplest method for those here is through the Hanscom Air Force Assistance Fund campaign page.
Individuals can also donate by texting "AFAF" to 50155 for a one-time or recurring donation.
“This fund is our way to take care of our own and support the four charities that provide aid to Airmen, Guardians and their families,” wrote Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall in an email to the workforce. “Originally founded in 1942 by General “Hap” and Mrs. Bee Arnold in the spirit of “Airmen helping Airmen,” we ask that you please consider giving to the 2024 AFAF campaign.”
The Air Force Aid Society provides emergency financial assistance, educational support and community programs for Air Force and Space Force families. AFAS utilizes 100 percent of every contribution received.
The Air Force Enlisted Village has been committed to providing homes to thousands of Air Force widows. AFEV also provides bus transportation to go to and from medical appointments, the commissary, and the base exchange.
The LeMay Foundation awards grants to support widows and widowers of Airmen and Guardian retirees. Monthly grants assist with medical and prescription needs, meal services, and other unexpected expenses.
The Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation provides critical care and housing to widowed spouses of retired Air Force and Space Force officers. More than 92 percent of those who receive assistance live in assisted living, skilled nursing or memory care facilities.
Last year, the campaign raised $2.2 million in support of DAF families, according to the Air Force Aid Society website.
For further information about the Air Force Assistance Fund, including details about the affiliate charities, assistance stories, and frequently asked questions, visit https://www.afassistancefund.org/.