The AFFAR Fund

UPDATE

In late March of 2008 The USO of Metropolitan New York told us that unfortunately, after 16 yrears, they are unable to continue to administer the Armed Forces Family Aid and Relief Fund (AFFAR). This decision was made by the Board of Directors as result of corporate restructuring and a realignment with their mission statement and charter. Additionally, the Board determined that the operating and administrative costs have outpaced contributions made to the AFFAR Fund.

This was a very sad decision for us, but one that we can understand. When we began the AFFAR fund in 1991 we hoped it would continue long into the future to help military families in need. Unfortunately, that was not meant to be. But we are very grateful for all of the years that The USO of Metropolitan New York worked with us. We also deeply appreciate the fact that they gave us a way to help members of our Armed Forces and their families through the AFFAR Fund, and want to thank them for that opportunity.

We will always be especially grateful to Hazel Cathers, Director of Services at USO of Metropolitan NY. Hazel was with us in the beginning when we set up the AFFAR Fund at the USO, and she has diligently overseen it ever since. Hazel has worked at the USO of Metropolital NY for over 30 years, and every minute of that time she has focused on one goal - supporting American men and women who answer the call to serve our country. We have enjoyed working with her very much, and have always been so impressed with her integrity, her commitment, and her genuine love of this country and those who serve her.

Please continue to support the USO and all of the good works that they do. Our men and women in uniform need the USO and the services they provide, and the USO needs all of us to help them.