Just like many other nonprofit organizations, members of Assistance League of Anaheim have had to find alternative ways for participating in service projects as coronavirus restrictions continue.
So on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., members will host a drive-by version of an Operation School Bell event at Dr. Jonas Salk Elementary School for about 300 students of the Magnolia School District.
In collaboration with the district and Project Hero, the Assistance League of Anaheim will provide each student with two pairs of jeans, two polo shirts, six pairs of undergarments and socks, as well as a gift card to purchase new shoes. Project Hero identifies students who would most benefit from the Operation School Bell program.
Operation School Bell is the signature philanthropic project for the Assistance League, and has been providing school uniforms for children K-12 referred by local school districts for years. Last year, Assistant League of Anaheim provided clothing and shoes for more than 1,800 elementary and middle school students in the Magnolia School District.
“A gift of a new pair of jeans is small in comparison to the impact it has on student achievement,” Assistance League of Anaheim President Leslie Kazarian said.
Assistance League of Anaheim designates most of its $192,000 annual budget toward student achievement. In addition to the $95,000 allocation to Operation School Bell, there are several programs benefiting from this year’s budget. Some of these included $80,000 for the Teacher Assistance Program with $1,000 grants per classroom to improve learning environments; and $15,000 in high school scholar support to seniors in need of financial assistance of up to $500 each so they could participate in prom, grad night, senior trips or toward cap and gown costs. Members also supported the Assisteens Tutoring Program for elementary students that provides one-on-one help to improve language and math skills. The teen members of the Assistance League Anaheim currently have a membership consisting of 50 teens and 75 adults who participate in the tutoring program.
