As the airlifts from Afghanistan continue, bases throughout Europe, including Germany, are seeing an influx of new faces. The outpouring of donations and time from the community in support of Operation Allies Refuge in such a short amount of time has been incredible. Non-profit organizations, military units and dependents have been working around the clock to ensure evacuees are being fed, clothed and sheltered as they begin processing how to pick up their lives.

There are a few different avenues to explore for those wanting to help but aren’t sure where to begin. The KMC First Sergeants have put together a real-time donation wish list at www.alliedrefuge.org. It includes a list of needed items and donation guidelines. There is a dedicated sign-up to assist with women and children for active-duty females looking to volunteer with evacuees, which can be accessed via SignUp Genius (this is for active-duty women only at this time). Please note that donation items should not be procured from base exchanges or commissaries at this time due to limited supply.

The KMC American Red Cross has also opened its volunteer registration online for those wishing to volunteer their time. Once you’ve registered, you can access their volunteer calendar to choose a shift. Please note that Red Cross volunteers must be over 18 years old, a DoD ID cardholder and vaccinated. The USO Kaiserslautern is also in need of fruit and snacks during the day. Food items should be halal when possible. Donations are being accepted at the USO Ramstein Passenger Terminal location, but note that depending on the number of volunteers, the donation drop-off location may not always be open at all hours of the day.