Mission

Essentials First empowers dignity daily and strengthens community-wide wellness by providing and advocating for equitable access to essential personal and household hygiene supplies, as well as culturally appropriate food assistance.

Vision

At Essentials First, our vision is to create a community where

• Everyone has access to life-giving hygiene products that will protect against serious illness

• Anyone who steps into their shower will find soap and shampoo

• Moms, dads and caregivers always have adequate laundry and dish soap

• All people can experience the benefits of a clean kitchen, clean body and clean clothes

• Dignity and respect are afforded to all

Our mission in action

Settling Afghan Refugees

We are working in partnership with MAPS-MCRC, SCM and others to support newly arriving Afghan families to ensure their hygiene and culturally acceptable food needs are met.

“Our family has traveled halfway across the world so that our children have a chance to have a safe and happy childhood. Thank you for helping us, especially when we have nothing. It means a lot to us.”

-Gul, an Afghan refugee

In Partnership

We are collaborating with Helping Hands Food Bank of Skagit County for regular distribution of hygiene kits.
So many families are struggling financially during the pandemic.

“Ensuring that they have essential hygiene items to keep them healthy is an important part of my day.”

- Miranda, Program Manager

Supporting BIPOC Communities

We partnered with Black Coffee NW to deliver 1,500 personal hygiene kits and food vouchers to low income, black families with children.

“I lost my job due to an opioid addiction after a physical injury and couldn't afford to buy shaving products. Now, I’m more confident going for job interviews and am working towards getting my life back on track.”

- Danny, a father of four