Hearts Apart cares for McConnell families

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina M. Brisbin
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Approximately 120 deployed members' spouses and children gathered with wing leadership in the Hearts Apart tent during the McConnell Beach Party Aug. 3, 2012.

The Hearts Apart program is for spouses, children and families of military members who are currently deployed, on an extended temporary duty assignment or serving a remote tour.

Sponsored by the Airman & Family Readiness Center, this program provides an the opportunity to meet participate in various activities and connect with others.

Military members can enroll their families in the program during their pre-deployment briefing.

"Hearts Apart is a program to remind family members that we're thinking about them when their military members are deployed," said 1st Lt. Aisha Lockett, 22nd Force Support Squadron Hearts Apart point of contact. "We let the kids and spouses know the Air Force remembers them."

Frequent outings help to promote camaraderie among spouses and families by providing them a time and place to get together with others who are also going through the same situation.

There are six to eight free events each year.
"I love doing the Hearts Apart things with the kids," said Keia Shipp-Smith, 22nd Operations Support Squadron spouse. "The program gives us new ideas on things to do in Kansas, the opportunity to meet other deployed family members and helps to form a network with those who are not in your squadron."

Some other programs offered with Hearts Apart are "Car Care Because We Care", "Give Parents a Break" and "Hero Dolls."

For more information about Hearts Apart, contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center at (316) 759 - 6020.