New grant available for deployed spouses in need Published Sept. 22, 2008 By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- The Airman and Family Readiness Center recently formed a partnership with the Women's Opportunity Center/YMCA of Burlington County, N.J., to provide grants for spouses of deployed and/or recently deployed military members. "The grant was established due to recent increases in deployments and the resulting emotional and financial stress placed on military spouses and families," said Bill Cundiff, acting director of the Airman and Family Readiness Center. "Direct financial assistance and referrals will be offered for needs such as child care, utilities, groceries, home repairs and car insurance payments during these times of financial stress." Spouses are also able to use the grant to provide enrichment activities for their families such as camp tuition, art or dance lessons, sports involvement and other related activities. The grant cannot be used for traveling or starting a business. According to Mr. Cundiff, the collaborative effort between the two organizations happened by accident. He discovered the organization and grant while researching new ideas and ways to provide services for Airmen and their families. "We encourage all spouses to apply for the grant even if they 're unsure if they would be eligible or not," Mr. Cundiff said. To receive the grant, spouses must fill out an application and attach a copy of the military member's leave and earnings statement, a statement of financial need, bill or pricing of the item or service needed and any other supporting information that may be helpful. The application can be sent to Rene Mainor, WOC representative, via email at wocmilitarygrant@ymca-bc.org.