Operation School Bell provides new clothing and school supplies to K–8 students in Arcadia and nearby districts through volunteer efforts. The Assistance League of Arcadia is a 100 percent volunteer-run 501(c)(3) chapter of the national Assistance League that returns every dollar it raises directly to San Gabriel Valley communities.
Assistance League Arcadia’s Mission
The Assistance League of Arcadia relies entirely on member volunteers to design, staff and fund its philanthropic programs. Founded more than 60 years ago, the chapter operates a Bargain Box thrift shop whose proceeds support community-based projects. Senior Fellowship offers social and recreational activities for older adults. Book Buddies pairs volunteers with young readers at local libraries and schools. Kits for hospitalized children, warm blankets for youth in crisis and hygiene packets for families complete the suite of services aimed at strengthening community ties. All programs—from holiday toy drives to literacy initiatives—are overseen by volunteers who live and work in the cities they serve.
Operation School Bell In Action
Operation School Bell, the chapter’s signature program, has clothed more than 30,000 children since its inception in 1970. In the 2022–2023 school year, Arcadia volunteers outfitted more than 790 students in grades K–8 from Arcadia, Alhambra, Monrovia, Duarte, San Gabriel, Temple City and Rosemead districts, plus the Almansor Center, a community-based program for at-risk youth. Each child receives four shirts, two pairs of pants, six pairs of socks, six pairs of underwear, shoes, a sweatshirt, a jacket, toiletries, a backpack, school supplies and an age-appropriate book—an average investment of about $105 per student. Volunteers work in teams to measure and fit each child, ensuring that every recipient dresses with confidence for the first day of school and beyond.
Support Operation School Bell Efforts
Community members can support Operation School Bell by volunteering at fitting events, donating funds or serving as school and community liaisons. All donations go directly to program services; there are no administrative fees. Fitting events take place at the Arcadia chapter house at 100 S. Santa Anita Ave. Students pick up their new outfits on scheduled days, and contactless options are available for families who need them. To volunteer or donate, visit https://www.assistanceleague.org/arcadia/ or the national program page at https://www.assistanceleague.org/nationalprograms/operation-school-bell.
Operation School Bell offers more than a wardrobe—it removes a barrier to education and builds self-esteem for children who might otherwise go without new clothes. By fitting each student individually, volunteers make a personal connection that extends beyond a single outfit. As autumn settles in, this program continues to wrap young learners in both warmth and support, one student at a time.
