ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- When Airmen need a little financial assistance, the Air Force Aid Society is there to help.

Walter Anderson, Airman and Family Readiness Center community readiness consultant, oversees several programs housed under the AFAS.

The programs provide child care vouchers, grants for secondary education, emergency loans and classes for expecting parents.

"Every program has a different requirement," Anderson said.

Through loans and grants, last year the Emergency Assistance Program provided 118 people a total of $50,553 in assistance.

Each situation is unique and the money is used for things such as rent, food and car payments.

The Child Care for Permanent Change of Station provides 20 hours of child care to Airmen within 60 days before departing and 60 after arriving at a base.

The Give Parents a Break program offers active duty parents the opportunity to have a few non-work hours away from their kids.  Last year, the program was funded at $1,820.

Another program, which Anderson hopes to grow this year, is the Child Care for Volunteers.

"The goal is to get people to volunteer on base," he said.

Places to volunteer include the Airman's Attic, the American Red Cross office and the Youth Center.

Those who can receive aid are active duty and retired Air Force members, AF spouses enrolled in DEEDS, dependents of a deceased AF member, and Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel on extended active duty.

"We want people to ask for help before thing gets too bad," Anderson said.

The AFAS is one of four charities funded by the annual Air Force Assistance Fund Drive. The local AFAF campaign runs through May 1.

"The Air Force Assistance Fund provides an opportunity to help our fellow Airmen when they need it most," said Capt. Jaleesa Council, AFAF installation project officer. 

Other AFAF charities include: The Gen. and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation; Air Force Enlisted Village; and Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation.

Unit project officers and key workers are currently visiting work centers to share further information and answer questions.