On August 17, National Nonprofit Day honors the impactful work of nonprofit organizations across the country. As a proud nonprofit rooted in dignity and compassion, Giving the Basics is taking this moment to reflect on our own journey—and how a simple idea grew into a powerful hygiene charity that now reaches millions of lives.
Giving the Basics began in the Midwest in 2009 when a young single mother, using a government assistance card, was forced to remove soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, laundry detergent—and even toilet paper—from her grocery cart because these items weren’t covered. Embarrassed and confused, she left the store knowing her family would likely go without. When our founder heard her story, she thought, “There are others. There are more.” That moment sparked a ripple effect. After officially launching in 2011, Giving the Basics partnered with schools, pantries, police departments, and senior centers—growing into America’s hygiene hub. Today, through the procurement, fulfillment, and distribution of essential hygiene products, we regularly serve over 3 million people across more than 2,000 locations—providing human dignity one bar of soap, toothbrush, or stick of deodorant at a time.
From our earliest days, we’ve grown into a trusted nonprofit partner for schools, shelters, food pantries, and more. Thanks to our growing network of supporters and passionate volunteers, we’ve distributed millions of hygiene products across the nation. We’re more than a hygiene hub—we’re a movement for human dignity.
This National Nonprofit Day, we celebrate the community that has made it all possible. You—our donors, our volunteers, our advocates—are the reason we’re able to keep expanding our reach and deepening our impact.
If you’re looking for a way to give back that’s simple but significant, volunteer with us. Share our story. Support a school. Or just follow along as we continue our mission. There’s always room for one more person in this movement.
Learn more about National Nonprofit Day.
Follow us on
Facebook,
Instagram, and
LinkedIn
to see how you can get involved!
