Soldiers stationed at USAG Bavaria in Hohenfels, Germany, recently participated in an Army Emergency Relief (AER) awareness campaign that not only educated them about the services provided by AER but also sweetened the deal with cupcake incentives. The campaign, which kicked off on March 5, 2025, aimed to raise awareness about the financial assistance available to Soldiers and their families through AER.

Molly Sullivan, the personal financial readiness specialist for U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria – Hohenfels, highlighted the broad range of support that AER offers, emphasizing that many individuals are unaware of the extent of assistance available. To engage participants, Sullivan and her team devised a creative approach by setting up a display table at the Army Community Services building. Envelopes containing questions were distributed, and correct answers or commendable attempts were rewarded with either a cupcake or a prize.

The interactive session shed light on various AER programs, such as the Career Skills Support Program, which provides grants to transitioning Soldiers for career-related expenses. Additionally, AER extends support for immigration-related costs, aiding Soldiers who marry local nationals. The campaign also emphasized assistance with car repairs, a particularly valuable service given the potentially higher costs in Europe compared to the U.S.

In terms of fundraising goals, the garrison aimed to raise $50,000 during the campaign period, building on the previous year’s success of $82,000. Donations could be made online, through unit coordinators, or at designated registers. Sullivan encouraged Soldiers and community members to explore AER scholarships, including opportunities for dependent children and spouses. While the application period for dependent children ends on April 1, spouse scholarships accept applications year-round.

To reach a wider audience, Sullivan and her team extended their outreach efforts to the on-post Commissary on March 7, ensuring broader community engagement. Notably, AER disbursed over $1 million in aid to military service members and their families within the USAG Bavaria area, underlining the significant impact of the organization’s support network.

For those interested in learning more about AER, its benefits, and donation options, detailed information can be found on the organization’s official website. The combination of informative sessions, engaging activities, and delectable cupcake rewards not only enhanced AER awareness but also underscored the unwavering support available to Soldiers and their families in times of financial need.