Rotary International and disaster relief charity ShelterBox have extended their long-running Project Partnership for a further three years.
Having become Rotary International’s first official Project Partner back in 2012, the collaboration will now continue until at least 2019.
ShelterBox was a project adopted by the Rotary Club of Helston-Lizard, located in Cornwall, and provides humanitarian relief across the globe in the wake of crises and natural disasters.
A Shelter Box is a plastic container, which includes, amongst other items, a tent, thermal blanket cooking pots and a water filtration kit to provide shelter, warmth and comfort for a displaced family.
Each fully-equipped Shelter Box costs ÂŁ590, which includes the distribution costs needed to respond immediately to crises or disasters from one of their 21 locations around the world. This speed allows ShelterBox to deliver boxes where they are needed within 72 hours, and with over 10,000 boxes on hold, they are able to respond to disasters on a weekly basis.
Not only do Rotarians across the world assist in fundraising for the ShelterBox project, but they are often the feet on the ground who provide pivotal logistical support and invaluable local knowledge to help reduce response times and deliver aid to those most in need.
Peter Davey, the President of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland for 2015/16 commented: “We are delighted that the partnership between ShelterBox and Rotary has been renewed for another three years.”
“ShelterBox was founded by Rotarians and continues to provide immediate support to people who are in desperate need following a catastrophe that has destroyed their homes.”
“Rotarians throughout Great Britain and Ireland are always enthusiastic to raise funds to help to provide relief and safety in such circumstances and enjoy terrific support from members of the public too.”
ShelterBox CEO Alison Wallace added: “There is no greater calling than helping people in distress. Time and again Rotarians work alongside ShelterBox – many of them within it. The importance of Rotary to ShelterBox can’t be overstated. So I am delighted that Rotary International has again extended our official Project Partnership, further strengthening a circle of friendship that reaches around the world.”
Published: 15th December 2015
