Deployments, remote tours of duty, and extended tours of duty can often be hard for Airmen and family alike.

The Hearts Apart program at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, offers a range of support to help spouses and children keep life together at home while their family members serve the mission abroad.

Master Sgt. Jonathan Griepp, readiness noncommissioned officer in charge at the Airman and Family Readiness Center, said the program is about making life a little easier during what can be a challenging time.

“We have various support for Air Force, Guard, Reserve, DOD civilians, Army, and Navy too,” he said. “Those who are separated from their loved one an extended amount of time can take advantage of some great programs such as a free oil change, custom pillowcases, gift cards and special events hosted just for them.”

Hearts Apart helps families in similar situations connect and help each other through their shared experiences as well.

“It gives them the opportunity to fellowship with other members who are going through the same separation of a loved one,” Griepp said. “For some, this may be their first time dealing with a deployment, while others have been through it enough and can provide some guidance and support.”

Griepp said the program’s goal is to ensure the deployed person’s family is taken care of, giving those serving elsewhere peace of mind so that they can focus on the mission.

Spouses and significant others can sign up for the program’s e-mail list at [email protected], and also get information about the program and its happenings by following the A&FRC’s official Facebook page listed as ‘Robins Airman and Family Readiness Center’ on the social media site.

To speak with someone at the A&FRC, call 478-926-1256.

“I hope to see this program grow,” Griepp said. “Most importantly though, I hope that Airmen and their families realize they don’t have to go through their deployment or separation experience alone.”