Class busts Airmen out of barracks

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  First-term, single Airmen are automatically given dormitories to live in, paid for by the Airmen's basic allowance for housing.

However, Airmen won't spend their entire enlistment living in the dormitories.

The Airman and Family Readiness Center provides a class, Bustin' out of the Barracks, as a way to help Airmen, many who have never lived on their own before, prepare to tackle the responsibilities of living independent.

"This course is design¬ed for Airmen who want to move off base, and help them research the cost of living on their own," said Amy Soeder, A&FRC Community Readiness specialist, "We give step-by-step instructions on where to begin the process, what documents are required to get out of dorms, to start BAH and stop meal deductions, give them skills on how to do a budget to project what their expenses are going to be, and how to search for an apartment off base."

Searching for a house or apartment requires extensive planning, and the two-hour course gives Airmen many resources to help ensure their success.

All Airmen taking the course are provided with a folder containing an educational home-rental guide, an apartment-finder pamphlet for the local area, rental search and budgeting worksheets, a move-in checklist and more.

The materials are helpful, but Airmen will be in dire financial straits if they don't have good financial understanding and planning.

"We don't want to see Airmen having financial problems because they didn't plan well enough and got an apartment they couldn't afford or can't get out of a lease," said Soeder. "We want Airmen to take their time and be prepared, since they may have to buy housewares, furniture, washing and drying machines, and take on rent and utility bills."

Even with the knowledge provided in class, there's still help for Airmen who are experiencing financial difficulties.

Airmen can call and make appointments with staff members at the A&FRC, who will help Airmen review their budget and answer their questions.

"We can help them make the right decisions and weigh the pros and cons of moving and make an informed decision on a place they can afford," said Soeder. "The more prepared, the better off you'll be."

Smart financial preparedness is a key factor in the lives of all Airmen. With support available through the A&FRC, Barksdale's Airmen can obtain the skills necessary to put their financial worries behind them and focus on the mission.