Making a Difference: Assistance League of Bend supports both children and adults in Deschutes County
Kelsey Merison
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Here at KTVZ News, we focus our resources on bolstering the health and well-being of Central Oregon’s youth through our 21 Cares for Kids partnerships.
We have six incredible community partnerships that we’re highlighting through a monthly segment called ‘Making a Difference’.
This month we’re spotlighting Assistance League of Bend, a volunteer-run nonprofit organization committed to supporting the local community through a mix of programs and projects.
“We’re the leading provider of new school clothes for children in need across Deschutes County, where 1 in 10 children are living below the poverty line,” said Ann Schmidt, the vice president of marketing communications for the nonprofit.
Volunteers are passionate about supporting the local community, through a variety of programs like Operation School Bell.
“Operation School Bell is our signature program, and that’s where we provide new school clothes for kids… Having new clothes, it’s not a luxury,” Schmidt said. “When a child can go and pick out the clothes that they want to make sure that they actually fit, that they’re comfortable in them, it boosts their self-esteem, and they’re more likely to actually go to school.”
Another well-known endeavor from the nonprofit is Cinderella’s Closet.
“Cinderella’s Closet is how students can borrow at no cost, all the things they need to show up for Homecoming,” said Schmidt. “Dress, shoes, purse, you know, makeup, everything. We do that again in spring for prom.”
These programs are funded through community donations and fulfill a crucial need—for both kids and adults.
“We also do several programs to support seniors in need. And then we provide comfort items to folks going through cancer treatment,” Schmidt said.
The annual Raise a Glass for the Kids fundraiser is slated to take place November 14th and tickets are still available.
“We are aiming to support about 2,700 children. So 125 times 2700 is a pretty significant investment,” Schmidt said. “How we’re able to bring that to life is through generous donations and fundraising.”
Operation School Bell is taking place now through the end of October. Cinderella’s Closet is also open for Homecoming October 4th, 11th, and 18th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Click here to learn more about Raise a Glass.
Click here to learn more about the Assistance League of Bend.