Our 500 compassionate and caring volunteers deliver services through our five community programs on a purely volunteer basis. We have no paid staff, making us unique in the non-profit community. Our volunteers conduct extensive community assessments and develop programs to meet the needs of children and families in the St. Louis area. The generous hearts and spirits of our members have resulted in a significant impact and positive transformation in the lives of St. Louis children and families through our five community programs.
Books from Friends
Books from Friends provides books to aspiring readers in underserved communities fostering a love for learning. This past year a total of 18,856 books were distributed to students in 37 schools and 15 agencies helping to promote literacy through 11 interactive book festivals, the Urban League's Back to School Event and other community partnerships.
Operation School Bell®
Operation School Bell provides new school clothing, socks, personal care items, belts, hats and an age-appropriate book to students in St. Louis area elementary schools. Operation School Bell also supports 36 closets to provide year-round clothing, shoes, coats and other necessities in the schools across five districts we serve. Approximately 3,625 students in 37 public schools this past year have been served and over 118,000 since 1990.
Project ROSE (Raise Our Self Esteem)
Project ROSE offers hope and dignity to women in crisis by providing first night bags containing essential items and clothing for those in shelters and transitional situations. From gas cards and bus passes to kids' activity packs and seasonal gift bags, our volunteers partner with local agencies to offer meaningful support helping to raise self-esteem and build resilience. In addition, assault survivor kits are provided to the YWCA's SART program, supplying survivors with clean clothing and toiletries.
Assistance League Outreach
Empowering those in crisis with a hand-up, not a handout. Responding swiftly, we provide emergency assistance, including clothing, hygiene products, household goods, and other basic essentials, including beds, new pillows, sheets, and comforters. Our dedicated volunteers serve as a bridge for those transitioning out of homelessness, ensuring timely relief for families in need while restoring hope and dignity. In the past year, Assistance League of St. Louis collaborated with 57 schools and agencies and supported the urgent needs of 5,068 people in crisis
Scholarships
In partnership with St. Louis Community College, Assistance League of St. Louis provides scholarships that empower women to pursue higher education, gain new skills, and build stronger futures for themselves and their families. This past year 36 scholarships were granted through St. Louis Community College, empowering women to uplift their lives. Since 2015, over 150 scholarships have been awarded.