A Milestone Worth Celebrating

Dear Friends,

We’re celebrating a huge milestone this back-to-school season: Giving the Basics is now serving every school district in the entire state of Kansas!

That means more than 490,000 students will have access to essentials like deodorant, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo—items that restore dignity, boost confidence, and keep kids in the classroom.

This achievement is only possible because of our incredible partners, donors, staff, board and volunteers—Thank You!

Watch as Teresa shared this milestone on KCTV5:

Corporate Volunteering: Team Building Fun

Newmark Zimmer Volunteers

Isn't it awesome how corporate volunteering brings everyone together? This August at Giving the Basics, over 300 people from 21 teams packed 303,889 hygiene items in our Kansas City warehouse. 

It's all about those fun connections, laughs, and real teamwork that boost morale and build trust back at work. The University of Kansas Health System shared touching stories—like how a tube of toothpaste can end bullying or heartbreak for kids in need. And when groups like Newmark Zimmer add donations (they raised $30K this year!), the impact goes huge.



It's not just team building—it's community love in action. Big thanks to all—learn more about our August volunteers in our latest blog post.

The Crow Family

Katy first discovered Giving the Basics at a community product drive with the City of Edgerton Parks & Recreation and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department. She was inspired to become a monthly donor in 2021.

“I absolutely love the work Giving the Basics does. Education is critically important to me, so I love their partnership with schools in the metro. Kids today face a mountain of obstacles—access to basic hygiene shouldn’t be one of them. Supporting this mission every month is one small thing I can do to help.”

Katy even celebrated her 60th birthday by volunteering with friends at our warehouse: “We had a blast, and the staff was so welcoming!”

We’re so grateful for Katy and all our monthly donors who make dignity possible every day!

We have an exciting and NEW way for you to multiply your impact and provide dignity to thousands...

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