Contributed photo Assistance League of Everett volunteer Rene Porubek helps a boy pick out new clothes through the nonprofit’s Operation School Bell program in January 2016. The 2016-17 school year Operation School Bell program opens Wednesday.
The Assistance League of Everett opens its Operation School Bell® program Wednesday for its 51st year of providing clothing for children in need. During the past school year, 4,548 children and teens were served. Over the years, the program has helped more than 84,500 children across Snohomish County.
Schools refer families. Younger children come to the School Bell facility, where Assistance League volunteers serve as personal shoppers, helping children choose three new school outfits, a sweatshirt, a week’s supply of underwear and socks, a winter jacket, hat, gloves and a grooming kit. Often, the kids receive a voucher for a pair of shoes at Payless Shoes. High school students shop at a local Fred Meyer.
Proceeds from the all-volunteer Assistance League Thrift Shop, 5107 Evergreen Way, help pay for the program along with donations. Learn more at www.assistanceleagueofeverett.org, or call 425-252-3011.
