Air Force Assistance Fund continues Published March 30, 2012 By 1st Lt. Autumn Benedict 72nd Force Support Squadron TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- It's a well-known fact that the Air Force takes care of it s own. Each year that ethos is reinforced, in part, by donations of numerous individuals all focused on one goal: helping out their fellow Airmen in need. Since its inception, the Air Force has instituted its official charity, the Air Force Assistance Fund, for this very purpose. And each year at Tinker, Airmen and civilians alike extend a hand financially to those in our midst in need. This year, the 42-day campaign takes place from March 5 through April 13. During this time all Tinker personnel (military, civilian and contractor) have the option to donate toward the Air Force Assistance Fund. The AFAF comprises four different charity funds: Air Force Aid Society, Air Force Enlisted Village Indigent Widows' Fund, Air Force Village Indigent Widows' Fund and the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation. Each weekly April issue will highlight one of these funds, the distinctions of each and opportunities to give to these invaluable charities. Air Force Village Indigent Widows' Fund One option for donations is the Air Force Village Indigent Widows' Fund. Surviving spouses of retired officers may receive financial assistance to live in one of two premier retirement communities in Texas. The fund also assists retired officers and/or their elderly parents or grandparents, and since its inception in 1970 the program has given more than $10 million in assistance Additionally, spouses and children of Air Force officers killed on active duty are offered living accommodations at the Villages for up to a year. For more information call 800-762-1122 or go online to www.airforcevillages.com.