Fund helps Airmen in need

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Matthew Hubby
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Most military families have run into financial difficulties at some point in their career. Whether it is a car breaking down or travelling to see an ill family member, some life situations can put people in a financial bind. There are several programs Airmen can consult when this occurs, but some may not qualify for financial assistance.

That's where The Good Sheppard fund comes in.

This fund is run by the First Sergeants Council to assist Airmen who can find no other recourse. "The fund is very fluid," said Master Sgt. Brian Hierl, 436th Maintenance Operations Squadron first sergeant. "We get donations from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the chaplains and several private donators. We certainly appreciate any and all donations we receive; it all goes to a good cause."

To apply for The Good Sheppard fund, Airmen need only speak with their first sergeant about their need and let them know they have been turned down by other avenues.

"When Airmen come to us with a problem, they are self identifying," said Sergeant Hierl. "In this scenario, they won't necessarily get paperwork; if there is a problem we will talk to them about it of course, and if needed, we will set them up for a budgeting class through the Airmen and Family Readiness office. Our goal is to keep our Airmen from having these kinds of problems to begin with."

The fund will not cover instances of neglect and Airmen are not penalized for requesting assistance. Also, there is no guarantee an Airmen's request for assistance will be approved. Often, it is during the holidays that the fund gets the most requests.

"The fund's balance averages around $10,000-$15,000 a year, though some years it has been as low as $5,000," said Master Sgt. Michael Arms, 436th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. "In 2010, The Good Sheppard fund gave $5,547 to those in need." This was a decrease from 2009 when the council gave $7,192.

"We are working year round to make sure that our Airmen are taken care of," said Sergeant Arms. "The Good Sheppard program, funded by local communities, is one way we can ensure they are taken care of when in a financial crisis."