This year, smiles could be seen, laughter could be heard, and hugs could be felt as 375 TK-8th grade students in Livermore, Pleasanton and Dublin participated in a Fall school clothing shopping spree, hosted by Assistance League® of Amador Valley in Operation School Bell® – Clothing the Children program.

Shoes were on the top of everyone’s list of purchase. The children were told, “The sky’s the limit, pick out the shoes that you really love!” Many children walked away with shoes they never thought they would ever be able to call their own! How excited the children were to choose their own school clothes. We are happy to report that jackets, sweatshirts, leggings, tops, jeans, and underwear were among the children’s favorites

For 22 years, Assistance League® of Amador Valley has supported this crucial program called Operation School Bell®. It has clothed 7,472 students since it began. The goal of is this program is to boost the esteem of children, which leads to strengthening a children’s ability to learn. Studies have shown that children who attend school inappropriately dressed are at a disadvantage to learning, while wearing appropriate school clothing that fits and blends in with their peers, can improve school attendance and help classroom performances

Each fall, select children are invited to come to Kohl’s in Livermore or Pleasanton where they are paired with a personal shopper—a member of Assistance League® of Amador Valley. Each child personally shops with one volunteer and is encouraged to choose and enjoy selecting their individual school clothes. The money to support this wonderful program is received through grant writing, fundraising events and personal donations to Assistance League of Amador Valley.

This year, along with being able to shop for the school clothes of their choice, the children we encouraged to pick out an age-appropriated book and then receive a dental hygiene kit. These latter two items were organized and donated by the Pleasanton North Rotary, Children’s Healthy Smiles Project, and Liberty Dental. Upon leaving, the students and their parents expressed a heartfelt thank you!

Learn more about Operation School Bell – Clothing the Children

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