PLAYpass provides base discounts to families of deployed Airmen

  • Published
  • By Jessica Gibson
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  This year, the Airman & Family Readiness Center is offering the "Get Out and PLAY!" program as a part of their deployment support services.

Get Out and PLAY! encourages families of deployed Airmen to get involved with base activities and services by offering a PLAYpass card that provides discounts on everything from woodworking classes to child care.

Tech. Sgt. Bobbie White at the A&FRC explained that the PLAYpass works much like a universal coupon, covering the cost of various activities available for families, children, and Airmen returning from deployments.

The family and single Airman passes include three sections of various amounts of money that can be applied to life-skill classes, recreational facilities, and Community Center activities. The kids' pass has similar sections, and includes 10 hours per child of child care at the Child Development Center, Building 336.

"It's a great way to see what kind of services the base provides," said Sergeant White. "You can meet other people who have family members deployed, and it's a way to say thanks for supporting the homefront." She pointed out with a laugh that the best aspect of the PLAYpass is all the free stuff, especially the free pool passes and swim lessons. "In the summertime, it's the biggest thing people get excited about. It saves a lot of money for them," she said.

The PLAYpass program is a continuation of the DePLAYment program that ran during the Year of the Air Force Family last year. The concept was so successful, Sergeant White said, that the Air Force decided to fund another year with a similar program. This year, in addition to families of deployed Airmen, single Airmen returning from deployment are also eligible.

The PLAYpass is valid the whole time a family member is deployed, and for 90 days after the deployed family member returns. Anyone with a deployed family member who is stationed at Vance is eligible for a PLAYpass, even if they do not live on base. Eligible family members can pick up their passes at the A&FRC, Building 314, by supplying an ID card with their sponsor's name and a copy of their sponsor's deployment orders. Single Airmen wishing to receive a pass only need to show a copy of their deployment orders.

For more information, or to receive a PLAYpass card, contact Sergeant White, 213-6283.