Today, many youth-focused nonprofit organizations across the country aren't able to schedule hiking and camping trips because they cannot provide the necessary gear to children due to limited resources.

REI's Gear Bank program helps remove this barrier by offering free camping essential rentals to children involved with nonprofits. Our program helps facilitate a positive outdoors experience for today's youth - many who are able to enjoy their very first wilderness experience. REI's Gear Bank is currently offered in five cities -

• Bloomington, Minn.
• Denver
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Seattle

Apparel and equipment provided by the program includes raingear, tents, sleeping bags and pads, backpacks, camping stoves and cook sets.

In 2006 REI's Gear Banks supported 117 nonprofit organizations, resulting in 2,291 young people able to experience the outdoors.