Essentials First was founded in 2017 in the USA as a 501c3 nonprofit organization under the name, Kits for Peace. The organization has been providing hygiene and warmth kits to several populations including those experiencing homelessness living in shelters and outside. It also expanded its services to support low-income households at risk of homelessness by working with dozens of community providers who serve them. 

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In 2020, the pandemic exposed an alarming gap of access to hygiene support, especially among low-income households and those experiencing financial instability. After completing a needs assessment, our board of directors voted to grow our mission to provide these items and help close the gap.

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The Canadian chapter of Essentials First was created in 2020 and we have been partnering with various organizations to bring much needed hygiene supplies to those in need.