LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Lackland's Airman's Attic is in danger of seeing its door closed for the first time in 54 years. The program allows Airmen to receive clothing, furniture and household appliances for free.
The program depends on donations of items and volunteers to collect items and maintain the facility.
At this time, donations have been healthy but volunteers are scarce.
For the last two years, the Attic and the Loan Locker have been run almost completely by one person, Dawn Hayden.
"We were so low on volunteers," said Tim Walker, from the Airman and Family and Readiness Flight. "If Dawn wasn't here, we literally would have to close. She has been running it pretty much by herself. Even with a pace maker put in, she just didn't want to see the place close."
Mrs. Hayden, who is currently on extended vacation, recently received help from Leslie LaBrutta and Gary Medbury. Mr. Medbury has been helping at the Attic off and on for the last four years.
"We try to pick up the slack for people when they are feeling overwhelmed," Mr. Medbury said.
According to Mr. Medbury, the Attic breaks donations down into three grades: good, medium and bad.
The Attic keeps the good items and gives the medium items to the homeless.
Mrs. LaBrutta started volunteering a few hours a week, but while Mrs. Hayden is out of town, she is in charge two out of the four days the Attic is open.
"I came in for one hour and ended up staying for four hours," Mrs. LaBrutta said. "I realized that the need for help was tremendous. Without an incredible amount of man hours you can't get it going."
Mrs. LaBrutta said that at previous assignments she had been involved with Loan Locker, a place where Airmen can borrow appliances.
"The idea is that when people are leaving a base or moving to a new one, those first few days or weeks they might not have their items," Mrs. LaBrutta said.
"Rather than go out and buy a toaster or a sofa, they can borrow one from the Loan Locker."
Since Airmen typically relocate during the summer months, the Loan Locker has seen more visitors recently. "It's being used all the time," Mrs. LaBrutta said.
"There is constant traffic over there. I can't imagine being here by myself all the time."
Many Airmen who visit the Attic are hoping to find items for their first home.
"They are the ones that give me such joy," Mrs. LaBrutta said. "They will be living off base for the first time. And they need the basic necessities to start a household. It's a great feeling to see them so excited."
Those interested in donating to the Airman's Attic can drop off items at Bldg. 1508 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Those interested in volunteering can stop by and fill out an application at the Attic during its normal operating hours.
"It's surprising how many people don't know we are here. It's a wonderful program," Mrs. LaBrutta said.
For more information, call Tim Walker at 671-3722.