Operation Warmheart receives large donation

  • Published
  • By Airman Corey Hook
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Operation Warmheart, a program designed to assist Airmen and their families with financial aid, received a $5,000 donation from TriWest Healthcare Alliance for Ellsworth Airmen and families requiring financial assistance during the holidays.

The program is managed by the Ellsworth First Sergeants Council and supported by volunteers. They distribute food baskets, financial help, clothing and toys to Airmen and families in need during the holiday season.

Donation contributors for Operation Warmheart range from individuals to organizations such as the Combined Federal Campaign and TriWest.

TriWest Healthcare Alliance is a privately-held company contracted by the Department of Defense to administer the TRICARE program in the 21 states of the West Region.

"Operation Warmheart is exactly the type of program we look to help," said Dr. Tim Ray, TriWest service area director of West Kansas and South Dakota. "We realize what kind of sacrifice the military does every year, and we want to help give back by providing help and assist Ellsworth base leadership lend support to families who are going through tough times."

Caring for fellow Airmen and families is the First Sergeants Council's focus.

"It is an outstanding program," said Master Sergeant Dawn Morgan, 28th Security Forces Squadron first sergeant. "The whole intent is to help the base populous in times of need."

To make a donation for Operation Warmheart, contact a unit first sergeant or visit the Operation Warmheart drop box located at the Ellsworth Base Exchange.