WHAT WE DO

Kids R First is a Reston, Virginia based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the education and helping kids (grades K-12) from families of limited financial means. We provide the necessary school supplies for underserved children so they may receive the same opportunities as their peers.

Kids R First created a unique model allowing us to provide custom orders for every grade level at every participating schools, ensuring each student receives supplies to be successful, beginning the very first day of school. This allows us to utilize every dollar donated for specifically needed supplies and eliminate unnecessary supplies found in made-for-all kits in retail stores. The school supply needs of a kindergartener are far different from the school supply needs of a high school senior.

1 in 3 Students in Fairfax County, VA and 1 in 4 students in Loudon County, VA receive free or reduced-price meals. We’ve served more than 1/2 million kids since 1998 attending 80+ Schools in Northern VA, MD, and DC. In 2026, more than 28,000 kids will receive supplies. 98% of all donations go directly to kids.

AWARDS TO KIDS R FIRST

• 2023 GuideStar “Gold Seal of Transparency”

• 2022 GuideStar “Gold Seal of Transparency”

• 2021-2022 Recipient of “One of the Best Non-Profits” by the Greater Washington Catalogue for Philanthropy

• 2020 L. Burwell Gunn Citizenship Award for Excellence in Philanthropy by FVC Bank

• 2017-2018 Recipient of “One of the Best Non-Profits” by the Greater Washington Catalogue for Philanthropy

• 2016 Very first recipient of “Outstanding Community Partner” by Fairfax County Public Schools

• 2013-2014 Recipient of “One of the Best Non-Profits” by the Greater Washington Catalogue for Philanthropy

• 2005 Best of Reston Award

• 2003 Martin Luther King Jr. Award by Fairfax County, VA for Contributions to Community of Reston