Alaska has challenging weather, but that doesn’t stop kids from going outside to play for gym, recess and sports. Unfortunately, what does stop kids is not owning proper gym shoes, sports shoes and winter gear. Some Alaska kids are coming to school with shoes duct-taped to their feet. They’re not wearing jackets because they don’t own jackets. That’s where The Basics steps in. PE teachers, coaches and school staff make the request for students in need, and The Basics fills the order. ​