September 15 – 19, 2008, has been declared Operation School Bell Week by Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., Governor of the State of Utah. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Operation School Bell as a philanthropic program of the National Assistance League. More than two million children in the United States have received clothing through this program. Last year in Utah, over 7,000 children returned to the classroom with new parkas, jeans, sweatshirts, shirts, underwear, and socks.

Imagine a child who has to attend school with no underwear or socks, a child who owns only one set of clothing or shares underwear with their siblings, a child who goes to school without a jacket or proper shoes in the middle of winter. This is a daily reality for thousands of children across the nation, many who live in Utah.

As Margo Simmons, president of Assistance League of Salt Lake City, explains: “Studies show children who come to school inadequately dressed are at a disadvantage and appropriate school clothing can improve school attendance and help with classroom performance. I am happy we are able to help so many Utah children with such a wonderful group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible year after year.”