AAFES helps support Airmen needing assistance

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While shopping for holiday gifts for loved ones, Army & Air Force Exchange Service customers can give a different kind of present: support for service members in need.

From Dec. 6 through 10, during the third and final Give and Get Back donation period of the year, Exchange shoppers can donate to Army Emergency Relief or the Air Force Assistance Fund and receive a coupon for Exchange savings. For every $5 donated, shoppers receive an Exchange coupon for $5 off a $25 purchase. (Shoppers who contribute online at ShopMyExchange.com during the donation period will receive a coupon code.)

“Army Emergency Relief and the Air Force Assistance Fund do extraordinary work for Soldiers, Airmen and their families,” said Exchange Director/CEO Tom Shull. “The Exchange is deeply honored to join with them to help the military community grow stronger.”

AER and AFAF provide emergency assistance, sponsor educational initiatives and offer community programs that make life better for service members and their families.

“The holiday season is upon us. By adding a donation to the ‘Give and Get Back’ campaign to your holiday shopping list, you’ll be helping Soldiers, Airmen and their families when they need it most,” said retired Lt. Gen. Raymond V. Mason, AER director. “And in return for your generosity, the Exchange gives you discounted savings on a future purchase.”

This is the third year that the Exchange has partnered with AER and AFAF to host Give and Get Back campaigns. Since the inception of the campaigns, Exchange shoppers have donated more than $755,000 to the relief funds.

“We all know it’s better to give than to receive; that’s the true spirit of the holiday season,” said Lt. Gen. (Ret.) John D. Hopper Jr., CEO of the Air Force Aid Society, one of four charities that benefit from the AFAF. “Please think of service members who may be faced with a financial difficulty or deployed away from their families. Supporting the Give and Get Back campaign at your Exchange is a great way to thank our military families for their sacrifices.”

In-store shoppers can donate at the register, while online shoppers will be offered the option of adding a donation during checkout.  (Courtesy of AAFES)