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AFRC extends support for spouses of deployed members through Global Hearts Group
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Spouses of Vandenberg's deployed members are invited to participate in a Family Night Out at Breakers Dining Facility here beginning at 5:30 p.m. every Thursday as part of the Global Hearts Group.
The free dinner event is one of the many services that the Vandenberg Airmen and Family Readiness Center provides through the Global Hearts Group for families of Airmen who are deployed, on remote tours or on temporary duty assignments in excess of 30 days.
"The Global Hearts Group is a valuable support group for spouses and military members," said Tech. Sgt. Molly Dzitko, the Vandenberg AFRC, noncommissioned officer in charge. "We try to provide support and information regarding any new programs or benefits available to our military members and their families."
Spouses of deployed members are offered many activities to connect to their deployed Airmen, to include personalized pillow cases, care packages and recordable buddy bears.
"The pillowcases always make my husband so happy," said Candy Homer, spouse of a deployed 30th Space Wing Explosive Ordnance Disposal member.
Homer is no stranger to deployments. Her husband has been deployed several times, and she has used the Global Hearts Group during past deployment cycles.
"Global Hearts is a fantastic program," said Homer. "It is nice to spend time with other spouses who are in the same situation."
Deployments can be stressful for both the military member and his or her spouse. Global Hearts offers activities to help relieve that stress for those who hold down the home front.
"I like the fact that when my son goes to school, I can go hit a couple of golf balls with the free bucket of range balls offered through Global Hearts at the Marshallia Ranch Golf Course," said Homer. "I can take the stress out on the golf balls."
Spouses who have children can also take part in the Give Parents a Break program that occurs once a month. This program allots parents free babysitting for a few hours every month during a designated time.
"Give Parents a Break is a huge help while my husband is deployed," said Ann Westby, spouse of a 30th SW Civil Engineer Squadron member. "So are the Thursday night dinners at the chow hall. The kids love doing the craft activities, and the best part is having no dishes to clean."
For more information about the Global Hearts Program call Tech. Sgt. Molly Dzitko at 606-0039