JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- When a tsunami destroys an Airman's home, or an Airman needs to purchase an expensive plane ticket to attend the funeral of a loved one, it helps to know that in a time of need the Air Force takes care of its own.

Each year, millions of dollars are raised Air Force-wide during the six-week Air Force Assistance Fund campaign. Just two weeks into this year's AFAF campaign, Team Hickam has collected more than $43,000 which will go directly towards assisting Airmen in their hour of need.

"The Air Force Assistance Fund is a unique charitable organization completely committed to serving our Air Force," said Col. Sam Barrett, 15th Wing commander.

The AFAF campaign is comprised of a number of organizations which directly support the Air Force, and is supported by the Airmen who serve in it. The theme of this year's campaign is a "Commitment to Caring." Around the Air Force, thousands of Airmen can bear witness to the organization they have called upon for help.

According to Tech. Sgt. Besar Santos, 647th Air Base Group AFAF unit project officer, grants from the AFAF are a lifesaver to young Airmen in need. "As a young Airman First Class, I received sufficient funds to repair my car after it broke down," he said. "It was really touching that the Air Force Assistance Fund was willing to support me. I make an effort every year to give back to another Airman in my shoes."

"I had an Airman who needed to get home after her aunt unexpectedly died," said Master Sgt. Nick Kampf, 15th WG AFAF unit project officer. "After she told me that she did not have the funds to make the trip home, I contacted the Airman and Family Readiness Center on her behalf. Within an hour, she had a loan covering a plane ticket to her aunt's funeral."

The Air Force's AFAF goal for 2012 is $6.4 million. Team Hickam's goal, in turn, is to raise at least $110,585 in donations towards the total. Airmen can donate directly to AFAF by completing volunteer slips and submitting them to their unit project officer. Alternatively, contributions can be made to the Air Force Aid Society, Air Force Villages Inc., the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation, or the Air Force Enlisted Village.

Air Force members who wish to donate can do so through payroll deductions, as well as cash or check. Civilian employees may also donate by cash or a check addressed to the "Air Force Assistance Fund."

1st Lt. Jeremy Walker, JBPHH AFAF unit project officer, is confident that Airmen will continue to contribute to the campaign over the next few weeks. "This program is an awesome opportunity to give back to Airmen from Airmen," he said.

For more information about contributing, contact your local unit AFAF project officer.