Families struggling with the financial backlash of the pandemic will benefit from a $5,400 award in school supplies donated through the Assistance League of Houston’s signature philanthropic program called Operation School Bell. Students at Harris County Department of Education’s Compton, Fonwood and Pugh Head Start centers gain the school supplies made available through a school supply list on Amazon.

“We want to do everything we can to help children succeed in school,” said Stella Evensen, Operation School Bell co-chair. “We are so proud we could do this and come together for the community.”

Pre-k teachers and center managers ordered items including reading books, games, arts and crafts, backpacks and play dough for the classroom. Funds also went to purchase face masks and shields.

Evensen said uncertainties like delayed school start dates made online ordering of supplies the perfect solution. Co-chair Aida Ledet assists Evensen as they equip 26 Houston-area schools with supplies, including the three Head Start centers.

Throughout the years, the Assistance League of Houston has donated more than 10,000 uniforms to HCDE Head Start children. This year the pandemic prompted the need for the school supplies instead.

“We are thankful for the Assistance League of Houston as they continue to support our families,” HCDE Head Start Senior Director Venetia Peacock said.

Throughout the years, the Assistance League of Houston has donated more than 10,000 uniforms to HCDE Head Start children. For more information on Operation School Bell, visit www.assistanceleague.org/houston.

To enroll your child in HCDE Head Start or Early Head Start, go to www.hcde-texas.org/head-start.