HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The annual Air Force Assistance Fund charitable drive begins March 31, with officials here aiming to raise $21,300 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 about more than just giving; it’s about taking care of our own and ensuring that help is available when it’s needed most,” said Master Sgt. Alexandra Counts, installation 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 charities exist for Airmen and Guardians, by Airmen and Guardians,” said Master Sgt. Nortaya Alexander, assistant installation project officer. “Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of those who serve and their families.”
The AFAF accepts donations from military and civilian personnel through various means, including payroll deductions, check contributions, or e-Giving.
The easiest method for those here is through the Hanscom Air Force Base Assistance Fund campaign page.
Individuals can also donate by texting “AFAF” to 50155 for a one-time or recurring contribution.
The Air Force Aid Society provides emergency financial assistance, educational support, and community programs for Air Force and Space Force families. One hundred percent of every contribution received goes directly to those in need.
The Air Force Enlisted Village offers housing and support services for surviving spouses of retired enlisted Airmen. It also provides transportation for medical appointments, commissary visits, and base exchange trips.
The LeMay Foundation awards grants to support widows and widowers of Air Force and Guardian retirees, assisting with medical and prescription costs, meal services, and other essential expenses.
The Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation provides housing and critical care to widowed spouses of retired Air Force and Space Force officers. More than 92 percent of those receiving assistance reside in assisted living, skilled nursing, or memory care facilities.
For more information about the Air Force Assistance Fund, including details about the affiliate charities, assistance stories, and frequently asked questions, visit https://www.afassistancefund.org.