Sheppard surpasses AFAF installation goal

Published April 23, 2021
By Maj. Htein Lin
82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

Over the past four weeks, Sheppard has held a steady pace in its commitment to “take care of our own.” With two weeks remaining in the 2021 Air Force Assistance Fund campaign, Team Sheppard raised $50,661 in contributions and beat the installation goal by two percent.

Although the installation goal has been met, Airmen and Guardians at Sheppard are still encouraged to continue giving.

“Talk amongst peers, motivate and influence each other to participate in this wonderful campaign,” said Maj Htein Lin, the installation project officer for the campaign. “It is not too late to contribute, and we need everyone’s help in this campaign.”

The AFAF charities serve Airmen, Guardians, and their families in their time of need. Last year, the Air Force Aid Society, a charity in AFAF, provided Sheppard Airmen with over $61,000 in aid.

Now more than ever the AFAF charities need donations with the COVID-19 pandemic limiting fundraising efforts. However, Sheppard has not backed down from the challenge and has shown fierce commitment its promise to protect and take care of the USAF and USSF family.

This week’s charity highlight is the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation. The LeMay Foundation has provided financial assistance to surviving spouses of retires USAF members since 1987. They have recently added the widows and widowers of USSF retirees to the list of supported families. The foundation provides USAF and USSF widows and widowers with the opportunity to stay in their own homes and live with dignity and respect.

The foundation provides monthly grants ranging from $150 to $625 based on needs. They also provide one-time grants that help cover rent, taxes, bills, medical assistance, funeral expenses and many other expected and unexpected expenses. They also work closely with other AFAF charities to provide support and help to Air Force beneficiaries in need. Last year the foundation provided over $473,000 in grants to their beneficiaries across 26 states in the U.S.

Key workers will continue making in person contact within the squadrons. Contact the installation project officers, Maj Htein Lin at 940-676-5777 and MSgt Jacob Benke at 940-676-3466, for a list of your key workers.

You may also donate directly to the campaign at www.afassistancefund.org or by texting “AFAF” to 50155. Select Sheppard as your base on the e-giving form. You can also enter your unit info to add to your unit’s contribution numbers.