Operation School Bell®

Loys Bonner receiving certificate of appreciation for Operation School Bell from Gaby Flores of Adam Schiff's office.

Since 1982, members of Assistance League of Glendale have provided clothing and uniforms for children in need in the Glendale School District. The program has strengthened self-confidence, promoted school attendance and inspired scholastic achievement in the children who have participated. OSB provides each student with three complete uniforms including underwear, socks, shoes and a backpack. Our auxiliary, Las Caritas, provides health kits and Assisteens provide the books.

Our members volunteered more than 550 hours last year, dressing over 300 children, kindergarten through sixth grade. Throughout the year, nurses and school personnel refer children in need to Assistance League. With permission from parents, the principal or school nurse brings the child to our chapter house where volunteers have put together uniforms in the child's size. Once at the center, the children try on the clothing for size. Included with clothing is a voucher for shoes to be redeemed at a local shoe store. Each child is also given a health kit and is able to pick a reading book of his or her choice. They leave with a bag of new clothing, a health kit, a book, a backpack and a smiling face.

In 2007, a new voucher system was established to provide gift cards for those children who are in need of regular school clothing. These vouchers enable parents to shop with their child at a local store for needed clothing items. The joy that fresh new clothing brings to a child in need is beyond measure.

For a history of Operation School Bell, please refer to www.assistanceleague.org.