• DALLAS

For 251 years, the Army has taken care of its own. Throughout June, Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) shoppers can continue that tradition with a $2.51 donation to Army Emergency Relief (AER) — one cent for every year of service.

From May 29 to July 3, authorized shoppers visiting the PX, BX or Express can add a $2.51 contribution at the register, including self-checkout, to AER — the official nonprofit charity of the Army that benefits Soldiers and their families with financial challenges associated with emergencies, education and unexpected challenges.

“The Exchange and AER share a common mission to take care of Soldiers and their families,” said Exchange Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tom Shull, an Army veteran.  

“AER has been a lifeline for Soldiers and their families in their most challenging moments. 

“It is an honor for the Exchange to do its part in ensuring the military community is taken care of.”
 

PAST DONATIONS

In 2025, shoppers donated more than $2.5 million to military relief organizations, including $1.5 million to AER, and additional contributions to the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS} and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS).  

Since 2017, shoppers have donated a total of $15.4 million to military relief organizations, more than $9 million of which has gone directly to AER.

“The generosity of Exchange shoppers has made a real difference in the lives of Soldiers and their families,” said retired Sgt. Maj. of the Army Tony Grinston, AER CEO. “No Soldier should have to face a crisis alone.  

“Every donation allows AER to be there for Soldiers and their families when they need it most.”

To learn more about the Exchange’s support for military relief funds, visit Publicaffairs-sme.com/Community/give. To learn more about AER, visit https://www.armyemergencyrelief.org. 

Source: AAFES 

Edited by Larry Lapka