Thunderbolts open hearts through giving

  • Published
  • By Radean Brown
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
A long-standing tradition that helps Airmen and their families in need remains an uplifting and heartwarming program, according to Luke's First Sergeant council.

The Council, headed by Master Sgt. Vincent Stephenson, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron first sergeant, is currently working behind the scenes to manage and promote the base's Adopt-a-Family, Angel Tree and Warmheart special programs.

Master Sgt. David Patterson, 56th Mission Support Squadron first sergeant and primary program coordinator, said the council works with these programs to ensure the holidays are a little brighter for servicemembers who may need financial assistance.

The Adopt-A-Family program helps financially challenged families by providing gifts to give to family members and funds for holiday meals.

The Warmheart program provides funds throughout the year to help those with financial emergencies. During the holidays, a check payable to the commissary, is given to
servicemembers who could use help in buying a holiday dinner.

An Angel Tree is at the base exchange through Dec. 15. Anyone who would like to give a gift, in support of the Adopt-a-Family effort, should pick a specially marked tag from the tree, make a purchase, tape the Angel Tree tag on the unwrapped gift, and drop it into the designated box next to the tree.

Help for the programs comes in many forms, Sergeant Patterson said. Base units, local community organizations or special interest groups will adopt a family, and provide that family with gifts and funds. The civilian community also contributes funds, toys, food and gifts to be used as they are needed.

"This is a very successful program," Sergeant Patterson said.

"The support we get is incredible, and everyone wants to give. Everybody is so appreciative of what we do, and they feel this is one way they can thank us. We're able to help many people, including new mothers, single parents and those who need funds for food."

Luke's first sergeants work with Airmen who need financial help not only during the holidays, but throughout the year.

"Warmheart is a program that is used all year long," Sergeant Stephenson said. "As we run into emergencies we're able to do so much with donated money. Even when
Christmas is over, Warmheart is still there. We gave out more than$20,000 last fiscal year.

For more information about the program or how to donate, call Sergeant Patterson at (623) 856-7269.