The Columbus Family Support Center (FSC) offers a wide variety of
programs in support of members and their families during periods of separation
due to temporary duty (TDY), deployment or remote duty.
-
Enrolling in the Hearts Apart program will provide you a way to keep in touch
with your spouse at no cost to you. This program allows spouses to
make one 15 minute call per week directly to the TDY member from the comfort of
their own home. Single members are eligible for this program, as well
as DoD civilians.
- Our Hearts Apart Social meets
monthly. This is an opportunity for family members to meet, network,
and exchange ideas on how to deal with any problems that arise. It
also allows children to meet other youngsters who are experiencing the temporary
separation from a parent.
- Give Parents a Break: Referrals
for a family who has a military member deployed, on extended TDY, or remote can
qualify for this service or if the family is relocating to or from Columbus AFB.
Families can also qualify if there are other special circumstances or needs.
Referrals can be requested through commanders, first sergeants, medical
professionals, chaplains, child development center, or the family support
center. This program provides 6 hours of free childcare on specified
dates each month.
- "Car Care Because We Care" is a unique
program. It allows you to receive a free oil change and
safety/maintenance inspection on your vehicle at the Columbus Hobby Shop,
courtesy of the Air Force Aid Society. This program helps ensure that
a reliable vehicle is available to the spouse during a member's
deployment.
- The Family Support Center has videophones
available. You can use videophone at the Family Support Center or you
can sign a phone out to take home. This service must be available at
the deployed member's location in order for the videophone calls to be
successful.