On Feb. 25, in conjunction with the Assistance League of the Eastside’s Operation School Bell program, 145 low-income kids, identified by school personnel, will get to shop with volunteers at the Redmond Fred Meyer store and choose what they want to wear to school this term.

In many cases, this may be the only new clothing the child will receive all year.

For more than 50 years, the Assistance League has worked with Lake Washington, Bellevue and Northshore School Districts and has returned more than $2 million back to the community. Already, this school year, the league has clothed 2,076 students in need. It is their belief that providing kids with something new to wear contributes to a positive attitude and success in school.

In appreciation, the 2009 Lake Washington PTSA Council recently presented its Community Outreach Award to the Assistance League.

Donations to Operation School Bell can be sent to PMB 291 C, 16541 Redmond Way, Redmond, WA 98052-4482.

For more information, call (425) 556-5106, e-mail eastsideinfo@assistanceleague.org or visit www.eastside.assistanceleague.org.