Assistance League of Ventura County

Operation School Bell

Since 1993, members of Assistance League have provided new clothing to children in need from the Oxnard, Hueneme, and Ocean View School Districts. In 2010, the program was expanded to include the Ventura School District and was provided with a classroom at DeAnza School in Ventura. A partnership with the Oxnard School District provides the use of a portable classroom at the Fremont Intermediate School.

School personnel refer children needing proper clothing to the Districts’ Healthy Start personnel who, in turn, schedule them with Operation School Bell volunteers. Only children referred by school district personnel are eligible to participate in this program.

The Operation School Bell chairman and her committee are responsible for purchasing the clothing and shoes, stocking the “store” and maintaining the inventory. Children, kindergarten through sixth grade, are brought by a parent or school official to the site where members of Assistance League assist the children in selecting their clothing and ensuring proper fit. Each student is provided with two complete school outfits, under garments, socks, shoes, sweatshirt and personal grooming kit. The children leave with a bag of new clothing and big smiles.

Each year, members volunteer over 2,000 hours to clothe approximately 900 children. Since inception in 1993, over 12,500 children have benefited from the program. The chapter is committed to supporting this important program through fundraising projects, community support, and grants. The chapter has received several letters of recognition from the Oxnard and Ocean View School Districts.

Operation School Bell is the signature program for chapters of National Assistance League. More information is available at www.assistanceleague.org.

The cost to clothe one child is approximately $110. To make a tax deductible donation to clothe a child,
please send to: