Gear Distribution Program

Starting in the summer of 2007, To Return created a gear distribution program in Moshi, Tanzania to provide porters and guides with access to suitable mountain gear.  Run by our local director, Joel Siao, the gear program aims to equip permanent porters (those who make the majority of their living on Mt. Kilimanjaro) with proper equipment including rain jacket and pants, insulating layers, backpack, boots, sleeping bags and socks. It is our goal to improve the working conditions for porter through proper equipment.

Since 2007 over 1,000 lbs of mountain clothing and equipment has been donated directly to the porters who need it most.  

Planning a climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro and have extra room in your duffel bags?  Consider bringing gently used mountain clothing to donate directly to the porters.  Our director of operations will coordinate the distribution and a tax deduction is available as To Return is a 501 C 3.  Alternatively, To Return will collect the gear in our Colorado office and will transport it to Tanzania as part of our yearly site visits.