School’s In Session—and You’re Making It Better

As classrooms fill with eager students this month, we’re proud to share some exciting news: Giving the Basics has added 249 schools to our program this year. That means thousands more students—many in rural and underserved areas—will begin the year with access to the hygiene essentials they need to feel confident, comfortable, and ready to learn.

Volunteers fill boxes with essentials for students

This incredible expansion wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our volunteers, and the commitment of community partners—you made this happen. Your generosity and time are helping ensure that a lack of soap, deodorant, or toothpaste won’t stand in the way of a child’s education and self-worth.

But with this growth comes increased need. More schools mean more students—and we need your continued support to keep shelves stocked and dignity delivered. 

Thank you for helping us start the school year strong. Let’s keep the momentum going—together.

In Their Own Words: Volunteering at Giving the Basics

NFM Volunteers

Here's what our volunteers are saying:

“Volunteering at Giving the Basics opened my eyes to how much need is right here in my community. Their mission and work are touching so many lives, and I feel honored I got to help them and be a part of that mission today. ” — Spotlight Analyst Relations  

“Volunteering not only gives back to the community but also builds our community.” — CBIZ  

“I really enjoyed my experience at Giving the Basics. It makes my heart full and happy knowing that we are changing lives in our community and helping others in need.” — Seaboard Corporation 

To learn more about our July volunteers, read one of our recent blogs!

Ready to join in the fun! Sign up to volunteer today!

Ashley & Shaina

Since 2019, monthly donor and dedicated volunteer Shaina Smith has been a steady force behind Giving the Basics. Shaina first learned about our mission through the volunteer group ServeKC—and she’s been with us since our early days in “the caves.”

When asked why she gives every month, Shaina shared, “It’s important to us that all people have the opportunity to meet their hygiene needs, regardless of their financial situation. All humans deserve dignity and these products help ensure that.”



Thank you Shaina! Your generosity and hands-on service have helped thousands in our community start each day with dignity.

Giving the Basics staff at the Scramble for Dignity

On Monday, July 28th, the greens of Falcon Ridge Golf Course in Lenexa came alive with generosity and community spirit. Our incredible partners at Moonshot Solutions once again went above and beyond, hosting the 5th Annual Scramble for Dignity and rallying generous sponsors, spirited golfers, and passionate advocates.

Thanks to their dedication—and the amazing participation of everyone involved—more than $50,000 was raised to provide essential hygiene items like soap, deodorant, and shampoo to thousands of students, families, individuals, and seniors in Kansas City.

We are deeply grateful to Moonshot Solutions and every golfer, sponsor, and volunteer who made this day a powerful act of community service.

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