Longtime Partner JCPenney and New Corporate Partner, Sikich, Ensure Students Arrive Ready to Learn

BURBANK, Calif., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Every child deserves to walk into a classroom ready to learn. Last school year, Assistance League chapters across the United States provided more than 464,000 children and youth with new clothes, shoes, coats, socks, and school supplies through Operation School Bell®, the organization’s signature program. This year supporters can help outfit the next 464,000 students by giving at Operation School Bell donation.

Operation School Bell began with a single moment of compassion. In 1958, an Assistance League volunteer saw a student sent home from school because his clothes were too worn to wear in class. She acted immediately, gathering fellow volunteers, raising funds, and outfitting children directly. That one response has grown into one of the largest direct-service programs of its kind in the country.

Today, Assistance League chapters partner with local schools and school districts to identify students who need clothing and supplies. Each child shops alongside a volunteer, either at their local chapter or at a participating retailer like JC Penney and goes home with everything needed to return to school ready to focus on learning.

“I am incredibly proud of our chapters and the volunteers who bring Operation School Bell to life in their communities every year,” said Judy Zulfiqar, Executive Director of National Assistance League. “They know their schools, they know their neighbors, and they show up for every child with warmth and respect. When one of our students walk into class in new clothes and shoes, ready to learn and ready to belong, that is the work of Assistance League volunteers, and it is something every one of our chapters can be proud of.”

Celebrating a Longstanding Partnership with JCPenney

National Assistance League extends its deep gratitude to JCPenney, one of its primary national partners, for many years of support. Through in-store and online shopping events, JCPenney has helped chapters welcome students into a retail experience built around choice, dignity, and care.

“At JCPenney, we believe every child deserves the confidence that comes from feeling prepared and supported on the first day of school and helping families prepare for life’s big moments is at the heart of what JCPenney does,” said Michelle Wlazlo, CEO of JCPenney. “Through our longstanding partnership with Assistance League, we’ve seen firsthand the powerful impact Operation School Bell has on students in communities across the country. We’re honored to support an organization that is creating brighter futures by ensuring children have the essentials they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”

Recognizing Sikich Corporate Donor Impact

As one of Assistance League’s 2026 corporate donors, Sikich helped Operation School Bell through financial contributions and hands-on service. Sikich team members volunteered to collect supplies and assemble more than 1,400 hygiene kits for students served through Operation School Bell. Employees throughout the organization also contributed donations, extending the reach of their volunteer day to children across the country.

“Our support of Operation School Bell demonstrates the collective impact our employees can achieve when they unite around a shared commitment to serving others and strengthening our communities,” said Dimitri Wilder, Sikich Culture and Impact manager.

How to Help

Individuals who want to serve hands-on can become a National Volunteer and join Assistance League’s nationwide volunteer community, or bring Assistance League to their own community by starting a new chapter. Learn more about both opportunities at Get Involved!

About Assistance League®

Founded in 1919, Assistance League is a nationwide nonprofit organization of volunteers who put caring and commitment into action through hands-on community programs. For 107 years, Assistance League has invested in children and communities across the nation. Through its network of chapters, Assistance League volunteers identify local needs and serve children, families, and individuals in their own communities. Learn more at Assistance League. 

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SOURCE Assistance League