Air Force Assistance Fund kicks off

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Vernon L. Fowler Jr.
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Each year the Air Force looks to assist Airmen and their families with unexpected challenges through four charities: The Air Force Aid Society, General and Mrs. Curtis E. Lemay Foundation, Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation and the Air Force Enlisted Village.

Together, these programs form what is now the 43rd Annual Air Force Assistance Fund (AFAF) Campaign.

The campaign, slated to run March 21 to April 29, has a permanent theme of "A Commitment to Caring." The Air Force family takes great pride in caring for its own. As a result, the Air Force has a goal of raising $6.78 million this year. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, specifically, has a base goal of $82,569.

According to Air Force leadership, "It's not about Airmen giving more, it's about more Airmen giving!"

Air Force wide, representatives in each unit will be responsible for getting the word out, answering questions and presenting Airmen with an opportunity to donate. Air Force personnel are only allowed to seek on-the-job donations from active duty members and military retirees, but contributions from civilians, local charities and contractors are welcomed.

"This gives us all an amazing opportunity to help our fellow Airmen when they need it most," said Col. Jennifer Crossman, vice commander of the 6th Air Mobility Wing (AMW). "With this year's challenges, it's even more imperative that we continue to support those in need."

For further information, or anyone with questions on how to donate, contact 1st Lieutenant Joseph Banaszek at 813-828-6875 or Master Sgt. Nicholas Thomas at 813-828-5532, or visit www.afaassistancefund.org.