Operation School Bell begins clothing shopping programs at Bend, Redmond Walmarts

(KTVZ) -- Operation School Bell, a clothing program run by the Assistance League of Bend, has begun holding shopping events at Walmart Supercenters in Bend and Redmond to provide new clothes, shoes and coats to local K-12 students.

Students in need select clothing using vouchers distributed by Family Access Network advocates at participating Deschutes County schools. The assistance comes as 50% of students in Deschutes County qualify for free and reduced-price school meals based on household income.

During the 2025-26 school year, Operation School Bell provided new school clothing to more than 2,200 local students. According to a press release from the Assistance League of Bend, new clothing helps meet basic needs while encouraging regular attendance, supporting student well-being and reducing the likelihood of bullying.

Shopping sessions in Bend take place at the Walmart Supercenter at 20120 Pinebrook Blvd. Scheduled shopping times include:

• Today, Oct. 8th, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 10th, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Oct. 20 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Oct. 22 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Shopping events at the Redmond Walmart Supercenter at 300 NW Oaktree Lane are set for:

• Oct. 13 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Oct. 15 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Assistance League of Bend is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization serving Deschutes County. The group operates without paid staff, keeping raised funds within the local community.

For more information about Operation School Bell, program contact Margaret Chappell can be reached by email at osb@assistanceleaguebend.org or by phone at 541-389-2075.

The Assistance League of Bend is a 21 cares for kids partner.