Frequently Asked Questions

We serve individuals and families who reside in Athol, Bayview, Careywood, and other small, rural, underserved communities in north Idaho. Our service area primarily covers the region north of Lancaster Road in Hayden and south of the Sandpoint Long Bridge.

Yes. As a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization, we work to meet the varying needs within the community as best we can. We will never ask for money in exchange for any of our services.

However, we cannot guarantee we can provide what you need, when you need it. We merely do our best to try.

Volunteers — board members, program leads, and general volunteers. We have no paid employees. Read our story →

Yes. We are a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization and our EIN is 88-0553784. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Not for our open programs. Anyone can attend a distribution event, take a free summer lunch, use the Careywood pantry, or come to the community meal — no application, no income test, no paperwork.

Emergency Aid is different: because funds are limited, applications are reviewed individually and you may be asked for supporting documentation. See how Emergency Aid works →

Yes. Should you or someone you know need assistance with feminine hygiene products, please do not hesitate to contact us. No explanation necessary. About the Period Positive Program →

Yes. The Careywood Community Pantry, next to the Careywood Fire Station, is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to anyone who needs it.

We can also arrange a pickup of prepackaged CoPow Foods meals in Athol. No matter your circumstances, no questions asked. See all meal programs →

Every Tuesday from mid-June through mid-August, 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, at the Athol City Park under the brown covered pavilion. Free for area children and teens.

The second Friday of each month, October through March, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, co-hosted at The Country Boy Cafe.

This one is not tied to need — it is an opportunity to gather, fellowship, and connect. Everyone is welcome, and yes, it is free.

Two pads, two tampons, two pantyliners, feminine wipes, a brand new pair of underwear, and a sweet treat — all in a cute, discreet, reusable pouch.

All 11 schools in the Lakeland 272 School District, plus schools in the West Bonner and Coeur d’Alene districts. Timberlake Middle School received our first free feminine hygiene cart in April 2024.

At any of our four collection locations: the Athol Community Center, the Resource Center (6101 ID-54, Unit B, Athol), Athol P1FCU, and the Farragut State Park Visitors Center. See all drop-off locations →

Please email beth@bestowingthebasics.org to receive a receipt for your generous donation, or leave a note when donating online.

Toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo and conditioner, body wash and soap, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes, laundry soap, dish soap, diapers and wipes, feminine hygiene products, OTC medicine, cleaning supplies, and pet food.

Travel and hotel-size amenities are always welcome for our school hygiene carts — please do not throw those out.

Bestowing the Basics is charged a 2.9% + 30¢ transaction fee on every online donation. We kindly ask that you keep that in mind when making your generous donation. Thank you!

As much or as little as you have. Some volunteers serve every week, others help once a year at a single event. There is no minimum and no experience required.

Yes, and we would love that. We work with groups, businesses, and organizations to run drives at retailers throughout north Idaho, and we will help you produce the event from start to finish — bins, flyers, needs list, and pickup.

Yes. Tell us up front that you need hours documented for school, scouts, or another service requirement and we will track them for you.

Children of any age are welcome to come along with an adult, and we will point you toward the tasks that suit younger helpers.

From age 14, a young person can volunteer on their own with a parent or guardian’s consent, once the paperwork is signed.

No. We do not require background checks for any volunteer role.

Absolutely. Host a collection bin, sponsor a program, donate surplus product or services, or match employee giving. Partner with us →