In 2022, Exchange shoppers stepped up and generously donated more than $1.5 million to Army Emergency Relief (AER) and the Air Force Assistance Fund (AFAF). Since 2017, the Exchange has partnered with the relief funds to make it possible for shoppers to donate at checkout in Exchange retail stores.

The Exchange recently implemented changes to the PIN pad donation options presented at checkout. Shoppers will now see an option to add a $1 donation to either relief fund to their purchase at checkout, including at self-checkout kiosks. Shoppers who wish to donate more can speak to the cashier to enter in a custom amount.

In the seven years the Exchange has partnered with AER and AFAF, Exchange shoppers have donated more than $6.5 million to AER and AFAF. Associates can help keep this generosity going by asking every customer, every time if they would like to donate $1 to either or both of the funds.

"Many shoppers might not look closely at the PIN pad screens as they are checking out," said Jetdean Martin, store communication and support manager. "Associates can make a critical difference by drawing attention to the donation option."

AER and AFAF provide financial assistance, sponsor scholarships for military family members and offer community programs to make life better for service members and their families.

"These organizations support our warfighters and their families in times of need. Partnering with AER and AFAF is an extension of the Exchange's family serving family core value," Martin said. "We're hoping the recent changes will help boost donations by making the process even easier."

Online shoppers can also add donations to their purchases at checkout at ShopMyExchange.com in increments of $5.