In This Issue:
1. $1.5M in Support After Typhoon Sinlaku
2. Supporting Our Great Military Spouses – Up to $2,500 Available for Education & Training
3. Staying Connected – AFAS Leadership Visits West Coast Bases
4. Engaging Our Community – Event Highlights
5. Did You Know – PCS Support
6. Supporting Organization Spotlight – L3Harris
7. Corporate Partnerships Expand Our Impact
$1.5M in Support After Typhoon Sinlaku
Following the recent Typhoon Sinlaku that impacted Guam, AFAS quickly mobilized and provided over $1.5 million in funds to help meet the immediate needs of more than 1,100 Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, and Retired Airmen and Guardian families.
We are especially grateful to the Bob Woodruff Foundation and Craig Newmark Philanthropies for their generous disaster relief funding, which helped us respond rapidly during this difficult time.
When disaster strikes, we remain committed to standing beside our military families.
Supporting Our Great Military Spouses – Up to $2,500 Available for Education & Training
Through our Bee Arnold Spouse Tuition Program, eligible military spouses can receive up to $2,500 for job training, certifications, and part-time undergraduate degree programs.
Military spouses often face unique career challenges due to frequent moves and the demands of military life. Whether pursuing a new certification or expanding career skills, this support helps build long-term financial stability for their families.
Learn more: afas.org
Staying Connected – AFAS Leadership Visits West Coast Bases
Staying connected with Airmen, Guardians, and families across the force remains an important priority for AFAS leadership. Recently, AFAS CEO Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Ed Thomas and Chief Development Officer Packy Lyden visited several West Coast bases, including:
• Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
During the visit, they met with the “Desert Lightning Team” at the 355th Wing and spent time with our dedicated attack and rescue professionals—and the incredible Airmen and Guardians supporting them. They also saw firsthand the strong support the Tucson community provides to Airmen and military families. Read more about this visit here.
At the National Guard Family Readiness Conference, our team briefed ANG reps from the 54 states and territories, discussing ways to better support and partner with our Guardsmen and Reservists.
• Travis Air Force Base
With a nonstop global mobility mission, Travis AFB is one of the busiest installations. AFAS is proud to have provided more than $230K in support to Travis Airmen and families last year and appreciated the opportunity to meet with the incredible teams serving there.
• Vandenberg Space Force Base
At Vandenberg SFB, leadership learned more about the incredible pace of operations supporting U.S. space missions, with Guardians already conducting 31 space launches this year and working toward more than 80 launches in 2026. While its location presents unique challenges, including high cost of living and access to specialized medical care, the dedication of the Guardians, leaders, and support teams remains exceptional.
Engaging Our Community – Event Highlights
Recent outreach events provided opportunities to connect with service members, partners, and supporters while increasing awareness of available resources.
• Armed Forces Relief Services Fair
On April 28, AFAS participated alongside Army Emergency Relief (AER), Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), and the Air Force Assistance Fund at the Pentagon. This event provided an opportunity to engage with service members and civilians about the important support available to military families.
• CISCO Webinar – Raising Money to Support Military Relief Organizations
On May 1, AFAS CEO Maj Gen (Ret) Ed Thomas joined the CEOs from the other military relief organizations (AER, CGMA, and NMCRS) for a panel discussion hosted by Cisco U.S. Public Sector CX. They discussed the important role their organizations play in supporting service members and their families during times of need. We are especially grateful to Cisco and its employees for their generous support and donations! The webinar raised more than $20K in support, and CISCO will continue its fundraising efforts throughout the month.
Did You Know – PCS Support Available
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) season can bring unexpected costs and added stress for military families. Several types of assistance are available to help ease the transition.
• Rent & Deposit Assistance
AFAS may assist with rent and security deposits at a new duty station when PCS-related expenses create financial hardship.
• Child Care Assistance
AFAS can help cover short-term child care costs (up to $1,000 per family) while packing, traveling, or settling into a new location. Learn more about our Child Care for PCS program here.
• Pet PCS Transportation
Financial assistance is available for eligible “out-of-pocket” dog and cat transportation expenses during a PCS move.
• PCS Vehicle Shipment
AFAS may help cover vehicle shipping costs incurred during a PCS move.
Wherever the mission takes our service members and their families, we’re here to help support the journey.
Supporting Organization Spotlight – L3Harris
This month, we recognize L3Harris for their continued generous support of our mission. In a fast moving and increasing complex world, L3Harris is anticipating and rapidly responding to challenges with agile technology – creating a safer and more secure future.
Their support helps provide meaningful assistance to service members and families serving around the globe. Special thanks to Erica Lemp who has been instrumental in this partnership.
Corporate Partnerships Expand Our Impact
Corporate partnerships play a vital role in supporting our mission to help Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Their generosity helps make it possible for us to respond quickly during emergencies, provide funding for education, and continue meeting the evolving needs of our military families.
We are grateful for the organizations, companies, and nonprofit partners who stand alongside our Force and help expand the impact of our mission.
Interested in partnering with AFAS? Learn more at afas.org/partners.