HILL AIR FORCE BASE – Expectant Hill AFB military members can obtain a free maternity, military uniform at the Airman’s Attic through the Maternity Uniform Initiative.
“An expectant military member can go into the Airman’s Attic and pick up a maternity uniform for themselves, said Wyteeshia McRoberts, Affirmative Employment Program manager. “Of course, it depends on uniform availability, but we are hoping it is that simple. We ask that they limit themselves to one uniform to allow other expectant military members the opportunity to obtain a uniform.”
The Department of the Air Force initiated a pilot program at select bases, allowing expectant active-duty service members to be temporarily issued three sets of maternity OCP tops and bottoms to wear up to six months post-partum.
McRoberts said she wanted to do something in the interim, as Hill is not one of the bases where the Department of the Air Force initiated a pilot program.
Expectant enlisted active-duty members receive a clothing allowance once in a three-year period and officers pay out of pocket. This service allows expectant active-duty members another avenue to procure maternity uniforms.
“The Airman’s Attic has always accepted maternity uniforms, but we are hoping to enhance the visibility and utilization of the Airman’s Attic to acquire and provide maternity uniforms for expectant active-duty service members,” she said.
McRoberts said she hopes more people will donate maternity uniforms to support this initiative but wants to also ensure no one puts themself in a bind by donating.
The Airman’s Attic is open to all military members, retirees, and eligible dependents with a valid and current military ID.
Military members who have maternity uniforms they wish to donate can take them to the Airman’s Attic, located in building 150.
Donations are accepted from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturdays and noon-2 p.m. on Sundays.
Donations can also be made during operating hours, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am-2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5-7 p.m., but the individuals should speak to a volunteer on shift prior to leaving the donations.
Other AFMC Affirmative Employment Program Managers are looking at potentially establishing maternity uniform initiatives at their bases as well.
“We are excited to have this initiative at Hill because it showcases another way, we are taking care of our military members and highlights another of the wonderful programs we have on base,” McRoberts said.