Our Philanthropic Programs

• Operation School Bell®
• Brighter Tomorrows
• Book Bank
• The Kids on the Block™
• Act III
• Operation Healthy Teeth
• Baby Bundles
• Assault Survivor Kits®

Philanthropic Programs > Operation School Bell

Last year, over 7,000 children in Salt Lake, Granite, Murray, Jordan and Park City school districts returned to the classroom with new parkas, jeans, sweatshirts, shirts, underwear and socks thanks to the 294 volunteer members of the local chapter of Assistance League, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to action through community-based projects.

Imagine a child who has to attend school with no underwear or socks, a child who owns only one set of clothing, who goes to school without a jacket or proper shoes in the middle of winter. This is the daily reality for thousands of children across the nation. For 50 years, volunteer members of Assistance League have stepped up to this challenge, helping these children through their national philanthropic program, Operation School Bell®. Since the program was initiated in Salt Lake City in 1976, over 70,000 children have been served.

There is a clear and growing need in our community for these services. School psychologists and social workers have observed that children who come to school inadequately dressed are at a disadvantage. Appropriate school clothing can improve school attendance and help with classroom performance.

In Utah, Operation School Bell is made possible by funds raised through Assistance League of Salt Lake City’s community-supported and volunteer-run thrift store, Thrift on 33rd, as well as by private donations and grants from foundations.