Through our Operation School Bell Program, we serve Transitional Kindergarten through 6th-grade students at over 125 schools across seven San Diego County districts. Using data from the California Department of Education, we prioritize schools with high levels of low-income, homeless, and foster youth. We also assist children in enlisted military, immigrant/refugee families, and those in the federal Migrant Education Program.
“Students and parents are very happy every time the kids get new clothes. I’ve heard comments that the kids sleep with their uniforms on because they didn’t want to take them off. There are some kids that never get new clothes.”
—Community Schools Program Coordinator
Last year, Operation School Bell provided over 8,000 students across 160 local schools with new clothing and shoes- boosting their confidence, fostering a sense of belonging, and supporting their success in school.
Our support includes Target shopping events, bulk order deliveries, and emergency responses to disasters like fires or floods.
“Your program has been a great support for parents and the students feel more comfortable and confident with good, new clothes and shoes. That confidence is reflected in more participation and better behavior.”
—School Social Worker
The San Diego Unified School District Police team up with Operation School Bell to treat needy students to a personalized shopping trip for school clothes they won’t forget!
“My students all come to school with their heads held a little higher and a smile on their faces after getting new uniforms. I think they engage more with their peers. They feel like they belong.”
—Lead Mental Health Specialist
