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Aid Society Expands to Better Serve Airmen, Guardians

JUNE 10, 2025 – In a sweeping expansion of its services, Air Force Aid Society announced this month a series of bold changes aimed at better supporting the evolving needs of Airmen, Guardians, and their families. The official relief organization for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force has broadened its categories of financial assistance and unveiled a simplified application process that makes accessing help easier than ever.

From mental health counseling and adoption costs to childcare, immigration fees, and even basic household furniture, AFAS is reshaping its mission to meet service members where they are – especially in times of transition or hardship.

“This means hundreds of dollars back in the pockets of Airmen and Guardians, helping them navigate the demands of military life and access the support they need – when they need it,” said retired Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas, AFAS chief executive officer. “We’re evolving to meet the real-life challenges our members face, so they can stay focused on the mission.”

AFAS supported more than 15,000 Airmen, Guardians, and their families in 2024 alone, delivering over $14 million in direct financial assistance. The organization serves active duty, Guard, Reserve, retirees and eligible family members worldwide.

“If you carry a military ID card with Air Force or Space Force on it, we’re here for you,” Thomas added.

Expanded support reflects real-world needs
In response to feedback from families and frontline support agencies, AFAS has added several new categories of financial assistance:

  • Mental Health Counseling
  • Adoption Fees
  • Domestic Violence Relocation Support
  • Immigration Expenses (visa/passport fees)
  • Basic Furniture for New Households
  • Overseas Car Rentals
  • Car Seat/Booster Seat Stipends
  • Essential Home Repairs
  • Vehicle Shipment Costs during PCS

These join a robust portfolio of existing support covering rent, utilities, food, medical and dental care, emergency travel, special needs children, and more.

Childcare assistance – now more flexible than ever
AFAS also revamped its two flagship childcare programs – Give Parents a Break and Child Care for PCS – to be more inclusive and user-friendly.

Now, all eligible families, regardless of rank, receive direct payment via Zelle or ACH and can choose any trusted provider, including friends or family.

“Whether you’re a young staff sergeant with two kids or a major with five, AFAS is here to walk alongside you, especially during PCS season when stress is at its peak,” said Dinah Thomas, AFAS “lead spouse” and longtime military family advocate. “The Child Care for PCS application process couldn’t be simpler – upload your PCS orders and your military ID, and you’re done.”

Childcare program highlights:

  • Give Parents a Break – $40 per child/month for up to 3 months during periods of family stress
  • Child Care for PCS – $200 per child (up to $1,000 per family) during relocation
  • Childcare stipends can be used on any care arrangement consistent with safety and supervision standards, even if not a licensed provider.

Streamlined application process
AFAS has also merged its Falcon Loan and Standard Assistance programs into a single, simplified application – eliminating confusion and reducing delays. Whether a member qualifies for a no-interest loan or a grant that does not require repayment, they now apply in one place.

“By removing barriers and making it easier to ask for help, we’re improving access and delivering better outcomes,” said retired Chief Master Sgt. Kris McBride, AFAS chief operating officer and the lead architect behind the changes.

How to apply
Eligible members can apply online at www.afas.org by clicking “Request Assistance” or by visiting their local Military and Family Readiness Center. Applications may require supporting documents, including a built-in budget worksheet to assess need and determine the best level of support.

More than emergency help
While emergency financial relief remains a core function, AFAS also partners closely with base agencies, trusted nonprofits, and sister relief organizations – including Army Emergency Relief, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society – to provide coordinated, comprehensive support to military families.

For more information or to apply, visit www.afas.org.

Take the first step toward securing your family’s financial future – and staying mission ready.

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Filed Under: Air Force, News

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Guard to Test New Mobile Brigade Combat Team

JUNE 12, 2025 – The Virginia National Guard’s Staunton-based 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) will be the first Army National Guard brigade to test and evaluate a prototype task organization for a mobile brigade combat team (MBCT) during its 21-day eXportable Combat Training Capability (XCTC) rotation in June at Fort Barfoot, Virginia. The MBCT […]

Air National Guard Unveils New Bonus Program

MARCH 11, 2023 – On March 1st, the Air National Guard (ANG) launched a new bonus program to attract and retain personnel in critical specialties. The initiative offers significant financial rewards, with bonuses of up to $90,000 for eligible members, depending on their Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs). This strategic move aims to strengthen the […]

Education Benefits Make Stronger Service Members

APRIL 3, 2025 – Within the armed forces, a variety of educational benefits are available that allow service members to both improve themselves and make themselves more valuable to their service branch. One example is the Military Tuition Assistance Program. The program is available to enlisted personnel, officers and warrant officers in the Army, Navy, […]

Former Soldier Navigates Job Hunt

NOVEMBER 19, 2024 — In early 2017, Michael Quinn endured what he called the worst day in the worst year of his life. Quinn, then a sergeant major and 24-year Army Soldier, had weathered deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Philippines. As an Army counter-intelligence agent, he said he learned to operate under grave circumstances […]

Step-By-Step Guide to Military Financial Stability

APRIL 8, 2025 — Financial challenges are a reality for many families, especially while serving. However, the following few simple steps can lay a solid financial foundation. Create a budget and stick to it.Setting a budget is essential to prevent financial hardships. When you do not track income and expenses it usually leads to overspending. […]

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