Organization helps needy students in area schools

Assistance League of the Eastside’s signature program, Operation School Bell, helped more than 2,700 students in the Bellevue, Lake Washington and Northshore school districts this fall. The students in need, identified by their school counselors, had the opportunity to shop for school clothes in local Fred Meyer stores.

October 19, 2012 1:30 pm
Bellevue dentist Dr. Mark DiRe tooth brushes from a dental kit to students as part of the Assistance League of the Eastside’s Operation School Bell. More than 2
Bellevue dentist Dr. Mark DiRe tooth brushes from a dental kit to students as part of the Assistance League of the Eastside’s Operation School Bell. More than 2

Assistance League of the Eastside’s signature program, Operation School Bell, helped more than 2,700 students in the Bellevue, Lake Washington and Northshore school districts this fall. The students in need, identified by their school counselors, had the opportunity to shop for school clothes in local Fred Meyer stores.

In addition to school clothing, each student received a hand-knit hat or scarf and a dental kit, donated by Dr. Mark DiRe of Bellevue Dentistry. Additionally this year, DiRe is offering these students reduced rate dental care at this practice.

At the Bellevue store, Bellevue Mayor Conrad Lee, Bellevue School District Superintendent Dr. Tim Mills and DiRe and his wife, had the opportunity to experience one of these shopping events first hand.

“We appreciate the opportunity to work with a wonderful organization like Assistance League of the Eastside to improve the health and well-being of these children,” DiRe said.

Since 1989 Assistance League of the Eastside has clothed over 29,000 students in the three school districts. In addition, the organization has contributed over $3.3 million back into the community through their four programs – Operation School Bell, Starting Over Support, Assault Survivor Kits and Assistance League Outreach.

More information about Assistance League of the Eastside and Operation School Bell is available at www.eastside.assistanceleague.org or by calling 425-556-5106.