Back-to-school specials at new Airmen’s Attic

You’ve probably seen countless back-to-school specials over the past few weeks as families gear up to get kids ready for the school year. A new store on base is offering an exclusive special for current and former military members and their families - and your money’s no good there.

The 911th Airlift Wing’s Airmen’s Attic, located on the third floor of building 209, is a place for all enlisted, officers, retirees and their families to donate and received gently used goods at no cost. It is an initiative started by the base’s command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Neitzel.

“People have different challenges all of the time,” said Neitzel. “If there’s a way to be able to help Airmen outside of the time that they’re wearing a uniform - whether with school supplies, help moving into an apartment after some type of tragedy, or something else and they don’t know where to turn - we’ll be able to help a little bit. That’s my expectation.”

Amanda Lindsey, key spouse mentor with the 911th AW Key Spouse Organization, said that when Neitzel approached her about partnering with the key spouses to start the Airmen’s Attic, she jumped at the chance to help bring a program which had helped her in the past to the Steel Airmen of the 911th AW.

“The Airmen’s Attic is a way to help others,” said Lindsey. “Whether you are starting out with a new house and looking for items like dishes, pots and pans, or downsizing your house and looking to donate some items, the Airmen’s Attic is the place for you. As a mom of 3 children, I know how expensive it is to keep up with the needs of growing children. I have clothes that they didn’t even have a chance to wear before they grew out of them. This is a way for families like ours to donate some clothing and hopefully find some donated items to fit our children.”

The Airmen’s Attic is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 pm. on unit training assembly weekends. For needs outside of normal hours or to coordinate the drop-off of a large item, please contact the wing’s full-time first sergeant at 412.474.8078.

“You can expect a variety of things at the Airmen’s Attic from clothing, shoes, and toys to household items,” said Lindsey. “Everything is free and on a first come, first serve basis. There is no judgement, just families trying to help other families.”