Ring-a-Bell project to provide relief for Moody families

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Spencer Gallien
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The Moody First Sergeant's Association is hosting a Ring-a-Bell program here to raise money for needy families during the holiday season.

Volunteers from different base squadrons and agencies will be outside the Base Exchange, Commissary and the Moody Shoppette collecting donations for the project.

Donations will be sent to needy families by the First Sergeant Association's 'Helping Our Own' program. Through the proceeds, the First Sergeants will hand out food vouchers, gift cards and possibly even presents.

"We want to create a sense of wingman-ship," said Master Sgt. Peggy Rollins, 23rd Maintenance Operations Squadron first sergeant. "It's important Airmen get out there and help their own during the holidays."

Currently, the First Sergeant's Association is looking for more volunteers, she said.

"We're always looking for more squadrons and agencies to step forward," added the first sergeant. "We still have gaps in the schedule that could be filled."

The Airmen Committed to Excellence council is one base agency that already stepped forward to help with the drive.

"This type of volunteerism is what ACE is all about," said Airman 1st Class Jaleesa Mortimer, ACE secretary. "This is really a great opportunity for us to show our support to the community."

The project's name took on a dual meaning for Sergeant Rollins who is in charge of the program. The sergeant said, 'Ring-a-Bell' brought back memories to her earlier days in the Air Force.

"As an Airman, I needed assistance during the holiday season," said Sergeant Rollins. "Now that I'm in a position to help others, I want to do everything I can for our families in need."

She also pointed out that the 'Ring-a-Bell' program is not just for Airmen.

"This program is for everyone, including non-commissioned officers, senior NCOs and anyone that is in need," she said.

This is the first year the Moody First Sergeant's Association is hosting the Ring-a-Bell project.

"We saw some other bases hosting similar events," said Sergeant Rollins. "We thought it would be a great opportunity to spread some holiday cheer."

Moody's first sergeants are hoping to build off this event and provide the local community similar support in the future, said Sergeant Rollins.

For more information or to volunteer, call 257-4037.