TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Each year, men and women across the Air Force make a commitment to carry on the legacy of taking care of the Air Force family by donating to the Air Force Assistance Fund.
Four affiliate charities benefit from the generous contributions that are given to the AFAF each year.
Since 1975, the Air Force Enlisted Village has provided a “safe, dignified and caring community” to the widows of enlisted Air Force members. Each year more than $1 million in contributions provide a lifetime of care and sustainment for the residents of the AFEV.
The LeMay Foundation provides grants to the surviving spouses of enlisted and officer retirees. This foundation believes that the surviving spouses are entitled a “dignified lifestyle” for the service they provided along with their spouses. Monthly grants supplement incomes falling below the poverty line.
The Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation provides a safe and comfortably modest lifestyle with access to long-term health care to surviving spouses. Since 1970, active duty members have provided over $17.5 million to the AFVCF.
Airmen and their families who stand in need of immediate assistance can turn to the Air Force Aid Society, which helps with unexpected or everyday expenses. From utility bills to securing airline tickets for emergency travel for funerals, the AFAS provides the relief Airmen need.
When the coronavirus pandemic struck, the four charities launched into immediate action. The AFVCF and AFEV ramped up staff to keep their facilities disinfected, safeguard staff and residents, and deliver medications and groceries right to the doors of those in need. The LeMay Foundation provided a stipend for all of their surviving spouse clients to help them pay for the added expenses of medication and grocery deliveries. The AFAS provided $2 million in support to Airmen, Guardians and their families impacted by COVID-19.
Tinker’s campaign has been extended until April 30 and the goal is to raise $64,764.
For more information about the AFAF or to contribute, visit https://www.afassistancefund.org/.