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For most military spouses, having their loved one deployed can be very stressful. Receiving support during the rough times can make all the difference.
The Ramstein Airman & Family Readiness Center is there to help in times of need. They offer information about everything from the Key Spouses to the Play Pass program. Spouses can come and get the resources to make their lives easier.
“Having him physically gone was the hardest thing when my husband was deployed,” said Shareen Ancog, 86th Communications Squadron key spouse. “It was just so easy to utilize the programs that the A&FRC has to offer.”
Programs like the Play Pass are easy to sign up for and even easier to use.
“A spouse can receive a Play Pass for $550 for them and an additional $150 per child to spend on several programs around base while their spouse is deployed,” said Tech. Sgt. Jessie Batchelor, 86th Force Support Squadron A&FRC readiness noncommissioned officer. “The A&FRC offers the play pass and many other programs to help out the women and men who have spouses that are deployed.”
The Play Pass is used to receive rewards and discounts on lots of activities around base. Spouses can enjoy various things on base like trips, educational classes, recreational activities, hourly child care and youth sports.
“It’s free money to utilize to keep not only you but your children busy,” said Ancog. “It’s a huge financial relief. I use it to help pay for my children’s summer programs.”
Another program offered is the Helping Hands program.
“The Helping Hands program is free of charge,” said Batchelor. “The program helps spouses who need help with maintenance around the house.”
The spouses receive help with many things from getting their grass cut to minor checks on vehicles.
The Key Spouses Program is also offered through the A&FRC. The program is a way for experienced spouses to help other spouses in need.
“As a key spouse I do everything from making phone calls to maintaining communication with squadron leadership,” said Ancog. “I will meet up with the spouse one on one to help them with whatever they need. Meeting with them one on one makes them feel more involved and knowledgeable about the program.”
The Key Spouses program is a great way for spouses to stay connected with leadership and to get help from other spouses who have gone through the same situations.
No matter how stressful the times are or what the situation is A&FRC is here to help. They live by their mission of enhancing personal, professional and combat readiness for not only Airmen, but for the family members on the home front who support them.
