Shelter Box

Every year thousands of communities, often with no warning, lose their homes, possessions and livelihoods. Every day they are faced with a battle for survival.

Since it was first set up in 2000 in Cornwall, England, Shelterbox has provided emergency shelter and essential aid to communities in need around the world. Today, ShelterBox is based in 16 countries enabling a rapid response wherever and whenever disaster strikes.

What is a ShelterBox?

Put simply, a ShelterBox contains everything a family needs to get by in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. While the boxes are tailored to the type and location of the particular emergency, it typically contains a large, robust tent, thermal blankets and groundsheets, water purification and storage equipment, solar lamps, cooking utensils, a basic tool kit, mosquito nets and a children's activity pack. Where schools have been destroyed ShelterBox also provide essential equipment for teachers and basic supplies for children.

Rotary and ShelterBox

Rotary has supported ShelterBox since its foundation in 2000. As well as fundraising, Rotary people also volunteer as ShelterBox Response Team members who go out to disaster areas and provide hands-on help. When disaster strikes, often local Rotary clubs provide the immediate on-the-ground logistics information and co-ordination.