Wadebridge Rotary was delighted to welcome Jenn Sandiford from ShelterBox on Thursday evening, 15th Feb. The club has had a long association with ShelterBox, since its formation by the Rotary Club of Helston-Lizard in 2000, and Jenn brought us up to date on how it now operates
The organisation’s mission remains the same: “No one without shelter after disaster.” However, the way it fulfils that mission has changed. The iconic green box is no more. Where that used to be delivered in quantities to disaster areas, now ShelterBox first establishes what is needed and then provides it. For example, in Morocco, they provided hundreds of tents after an earthquake destroyed housing, but where buildings are still standing, a tarpaulin and a tool kit might be more useful than a tent. Moreover, they try to source materials locally, rather than importing them, thus helping the local economy to recover as well.
In 2023, ShelterBox helped 325,000 people in 14 countries and are currently active in 12, including Gaza and Ukraine. The link with Rotary remains a strong one. Rotary clubs around the world provide local contacts which enable ShelterBox to move rapidly into a disaster area. Rotary remains a major funder, donating £1,743,360 in 2023. Wadebridge contributed £3,000 of that, and over the last 20 or so years we have contributed £54,002. (Figures from ShelterBox.)
With over 100 million people in the world displaced by war, natural disaster and climate change, the need for ShelterBox will not diminishing time soon, and Wadebridge Rotary intends to go on supporting them.
Jenn Sandiford (R) with President Ceri Goodfellow (L). Photo Kevin Smith.
'What We Do' Main Pages:
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moreDetails of Wheels 2016, Wheels 2017 and Wheels 2018
moreThanks to all who donated to this staggering amount. For an up-to-date figure see the Stop Press line at the foot of the page.
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moreRotary Club's Support for International projects
moreCharities supported during the various Rotary Years (1st July to 30th June)
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