Team Eglin helps Airmen turn houses, dorm rooms into homes

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Stacia Zachary
  • 96th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The recent strain on the American economy has created a renewed interest on organizations focusing their efforts on easing the burden on Americans. With outlets such as Airman's Attic, stretching the paycheck to accommodate necessities and luxuries is a feasible reality. 

Overflowing with household niceties, uniforms, creature comforts and childhood necessities, the building's doors are always open to any Airman in need. The Airman's Attic is traditionally an outlet for the enlisted ranks of airman basic to staff sergeant to find items needed to change a sterile environment into on befitting the status of home. The service is not limited to Airmen E-1 through E-5 but hosts all branches of the Department of Defense and Soldiers, Marines, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen are welcome to check out the wares. 

"In certain situations, even officers and upper-level (noncommissioned officers) have come to us for help," said Bob White, Airman's Attic manager. "We don't turn anyone in need away - ever. We're here to help and if we can, then we've done what we have set out to do." 

The Airman's Attic operates on donations, and while many donations are gently used items, many things are brand new. Monetary donations are often made and the volunteers purchase items ranging from diapers and family dining-ware sets that will be useful to new families. Oftentimes, the very people who received help from the Airman's Attic are its chief contributors. 

"Much of our donations are from those we have helped," said Mr. White. "Another source of contributions comes from the retirement community, because they still feel a tie to the military and want to help out however possible." 

The Airman's Attic supply is regularly restocked, especially during the peak of PCS (permanent change of duty station) season. 

"Many people use us as a place to get rid of things while packing up for a new duty station," said Brenda Morris, Airman's Attic volunteer. "A lot of useful things come our way such as furniture and electronics." 

Another service Airman's Attic provides is helping pick up donated items. With enough notice, volunteers can pick items up or loan a trailer to help contributors deliver donations. 

Though the Airman's Attic is supported through PCS and yearly donations, its most crucial time of year for donations is coming up. With the holiday season approaching, the Airman's Attic staff are preparing to help families enjoy the holidays. 

"People have been so generous that we have a good stockpile of gifts for the children," said Mr. White. "It's now that they need help the most and with tighter budgets, every little bit helps." 

Airman's Attic, located in the old prison compound and housed in Bldg. 594, is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations are welcome during these times. 

"We want to help make life more comfortable for Airmen and we try to lift as many obstacles to help them and their families out," said Mr. White. "If someone needs help, we will do whatever we can to help."