Nellis to kick off Air Force Assistance Fund drive Published March 20, 2008 By Maj. Erin Thornton 99th ABW director of staff NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The Air Force Assistance Fund drive, which benefits active duty, reserve, guard, retirees, surviving spouses and families, kicks off March 31 and will run through May 9. Nellis Air Force Base's goal this year is to raise $139,000. "This is an important fund to donate to because the money comes back to help our Airmen," said Master Sgt. Rudy Martinez, the installation project officer for AFAF. "This year's campaign is '$10 can make a difference,'" said Sgt. Martinez. "Although there are many repeat contributors, if the Airmen who wouldn't otherwise donate to the AFAF would consider reaching into their wallets and giving $10, that could add up to more than $35,000 in increased donations over last year." People can contribute through cash, check, money orders, or payroll deductions to donate to any of the four funds -- the Air Force Aid Society, Indigent Widow's Funds for officers' and enlisted, and the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation. The Air Force Aid Society provides Airmen and their families with worldwide emergency financial assistance, education assistance and an array of base-level community-enhancement programs. The Air Force Enlisted Village Indigent Widows' Fund provides rent subsidy and other support to indigent widows and widowers of retired enlisted members ages 55 years and older. The village is located in Shalimar, Fla., near Eglin Air Force Base. The Air Force Villages Indigent Widow's Fund supports the Air Force Village in San Antonio, which is a life-care community for retired officers, spouses, widows or widowers, and family members. The General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation provides rent and financial assistance to indigent widows and widowers of officers and enlisted members in their own homes and communities. According to the AFAF official Web site, the fund was established to provide an annual effort to raise funds for the charitable affiliates that provide support to Air Force families (active duty, retirees, reservists, guard and their dependents, including surviving spouses) in need. The Airman and Family Readiness Center has full details on programs and eligibility requirements. Contributions to the AFAF are tax deductible. For more information, visit www.afassistancefund.org.
