HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — If you’re in the Air Force, chances are you’ve heard the term Air Force Aid Society. But, what is it really and how can it help you?
The AFAS assists in supporting Airmen and enhancing the Air Force mission by relieving emergency financial distress, helping Airmen and their families achieve educational goals, and improving their quality of life through proactive programs. When one hears the term Air Force Aid, they immediately think “loans.” Yes, AFAS can assist with no-interest loans for emergency purposes. There are two types of loans under AFAS:
Falcon Loan
The AFAS Falcon Loan is a no-interest loan that can provide Airmen with expedited financial assistance up to $750. This loan is intended more for emergency situations such as basic living expenses, vehicle repairs, emergency travel, etc.
Standard Loan
The AFAS Standard Loan may be in the form of a no-interest loan or grant for amounts over $750. The Standard Assist Loan is intended for unexpected emergency situations such as basic living expenses, funeral expenses, pay/allotment problems, vehicle repair, emergency travel, etc.
AFAS is so much more than just loans. If you haven’t heard about the programs under AFAS you’re missing out. Programs include:
General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant Program
Arnold Education Grants range from $500 to $4,000 and are awarded to eligible Air Force dependents each year. The specific amount awarded correlates to a student’s particular level of financial need. The grant application process opens in November and closes in March.
Spouse Employment Program
This program provides entry-level job training for specific career paths to active-duty Air Force spouses. The program is designed to help spouse’s secure immediate, viable employment. Programs in the past have included Phlebotomy, Certified Nurse’s Assistant, and Emergency Medical Technician training. AFAS pays for participants’ tuition, instructor fees, and course materials.
Give Parents a Break Childcare
The purpose of this program is to offer eligible families a few hours break from the stresses of parenting because of the unique stress due to the nature of military life—deployments, remote tours, extended working hours, etc. GPAB is offered once a month at the Youth and Child Development Center.
Child Care for PCS Program
The Child Care for PCS Program is intended to provide assistance for families in the process of a PCS move. Those eligible will receive up to 20 hours of child care (per child) in certified Family Child Care homes at Hill AFB and off-base locations.
Car Care Because We Care
Provides a cash-equivalent voucher to the spouse of a deployed/remote military member for basic oil/filter change at the Kwik Kar on base for the member’s primary vehicle while the service member is away.
Bundles for Babies
The Bundles for Babies class teaches parents basic parenting skills, as well as essential financial skills to help them budget for their new baby, from birth to college. After completing the class, eligible parents will receive a gift card from AFAS to help purchase some of baby’s first essentials.
Heart Link Spouse Orientation Program
Heart Link was designed to assist and orient new Air Force spouses to active-duty military life. During the Heart Link event, spouses will learn about a host of base resources available to them and their families. They will also get a chance to address any concerns they have being new to the military life and the potential to connect to other military spouses.
To learn more about AFAS, eligibility, and programs offered you can check them out online at www.afas.org or contact your local Airman & Family Readiness Center at 801-777-4681.
