AFAS and Cannon CDC give parents a break

27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

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Deployment-affected Air Commandos stationed at Cannon Air Force Base may be eligible to receive free childcare services each month courtesy of the Air Force Aid Society and the Cannon Child Development Center.

The Give Parents a Break program provides an opportunity for a war-weary force to participate in social and recreation programs, or simply enjoy a few hours of leisure while their children are cared for by the trusted professionals at the Cannon CDC.

According to the AFAS website, the organization recognizes that Air Force families are subject to unique stresses due to the nature of military life — deployments, remote tours of duty, frequent moves and extended hours. Families are geographically cut off from the military member as well as relatives who might otherwise offer support.

"The Give Parents a Break program provides six hours of childcare, once a month for families of deployed members and families experiencing unique stressors," said Linda Sapp, 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron Airman & Family Readiness Center community readiness consultant. "To qualify, children must be between 6 weeks and 12 years old."

In order to participate in the program, Air Commandos must deliver an approved referral to the Cannon CDC by the predetermined registration deadline which can be found in the monthly edition of the At Your Service magazine.

"For spouses of deployed service members, vouchers can be obtained through the A&FRC," Sapp said. "Those who are applying under the hardship qualification can request a referral through their first sergeant."

Parents who take advantage of the Give Parents a Break program can rest easy in the knowledge that their children are under the watchful eye of experienced caregivers.

"Having worked at the CDC for 27 years in both childcare and administration, I can confidently state that the staff are regularly trained in childcare procedures and are loving, attentive adults who enjoy interacting with children," said Terry Hutson, 27 SOFSS Cannon CDC data automated clerk. "They are dedicated individuals who are genuinely concerned with the wellbeing of each child."

According to Sapp, something as simple as a night off can be a life-saver for parents pulling double duty to support their significant other.

"This is a great program that is intended to give parents some time alone to recharge their batteries," she said. "When someone is serving as a single parent during a deployment, sometimes they just need time away."

Hutson echoed Sapp's sentiments.

"For deployed airmen, knowing that their spouse has support while they are away from home can be very beneficial," she said. "These few hours of free time can be a great stress reliever for a parent who is trying to juggle all the demands of running a household without the help of their partner."

For the complete Give Parents a Break schedule, visit the 27 SOFSS website at http://www.cannonforce.com/, or call the Cannon CDC at 575-784-2704.