Grants to Assistance League of St. Louis Support Operation School Bell

When the school bell rings in the fall, teams of Assistance League of St. Louis (ALSTL) volunteers will visit schools in St. Louis City and County to measure students for school uniforms, shoes, coats, hats and other clothing basics so that the children can attend school.

Three recent grants will support Operation School Bell, the program that outfits the students. A $5,000 grant from Carney’s Kids is earmarked for Steps to Success, the shoe component of the program. The $2,500 from the Bernice Priger Charitable Foundation is a first-time grant and provides overall program support. A major grant of $40,000 from Emerson Trust will provide support for all aspects of the program.

“We are very grateful for these generous grants,” said ALSTL President Sandy Brody. “Last year, with support that included funding from Emerson Trust and Carney’s Kids, we provided 3,632 complete uniform filled duffle bags and 6,023 pairs of new athletic shoes to students in 56 schools across seven districts. We anticipate an even greater need this fall because of the devastating losses from the May tornado in some of the neighborhoods we serve. That’s why every contribution is significant and why we especially celebrate the new funding from the Bernice Priger Charitable Foundation.”

Operation School Bell Chair Pam Bogosian said, “Being outfitted in new clothes and shoes provides a boost in self-confidence, but most important, makes it possible for the children to attend school to get the education that can open doors to future success. Sometimes a little assistance is all it takes to change a life.”