From frequent moves and deployments to balancing education and family responsibilities, military life can create unique childcare challenges for Airmen, Guardians and their families.
The Air and Space Forces Aid Society, the services' official relief organization, offers several programs to help families with childcare costs during different stages of military life.
"Childcare can quickly become an added source of stress for military families, particularly during a move, deployment or other major transition," said retired Command Chief Master Sgt. Kris Spencer, AFAS chief operating officer, who oversees the organization's programs and support services. "Our goal is to provide practical support that gives families greater flexibility and helps relieve some of that burden."
Childcare assistance available through AFAS includes:
Giving Parents a Break
Provides families up to $120 per dependent child over a three-month period to give parents an opportunity to take a much-needed break during periods of stress. To qualify, families must be referred by a unit commander, first sergeant, medical provider, chaplain or Military and Family Readiness Center personnel.
Childcare for PCS
Provides $200 per dependent child up to age 12, with a maximum of $1,000 per family, to help cover childcare during a permanent change of station. Assistance is also available for retirement, palace chase, and separation moves. All Air Force and Space Force families qualify regardless of rank or finances.
Education Childcare Grant
Provides up to $750 in childcare assistance for eligible military spouses approved for the AFAS Bee Arnold Spouse Tuition Program, helping offset childcare costs while they pursue education or career goals.
For these programs, approved funds are sent directly to families through Zelle or ACH, providing the flexibility to choose the childcare option that best meets their needs.
"We want Airmen, Guardians, and their families to know these resources are available and easy to access," Spencer said. "When childcare is a challenge, AFAS is here to help."
To learn more or to apply, visit afas.org.
