NEWSLETTER WINTER2012 DISASTER RELIEF
EDITORIAL As 2012 comes to an end and we look towards 2013, it is time to reflect on what has been another demanding year for ShelterBox. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters ShelterBox responded to 23 different disasters around the world, providing more than 5,000 families with emergency shelter and vital equipment. On page 7, ‘A Year in Review’ highlights the scale and scope of our disaster relief work this year, whilst on page 11 Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Ian Munday, shares ShelterBox’s key achievements and challenges and what we can expect to see from ShelterBox in 2013.
EDITORIAL
Articles about ShelterBox’s recent responses to widespread flooding in West Africa (page 4) and to the Syrian refugee crisis (page 6) highlight the complexities and challenges of distributing aid effectively in increasingly unpredictable environments.
It is the incredible commitment of our supporters that continues to inspire the ShelterBox team and, most importantly, make our work possible. Sue Nelson, a supporter of more than six years, tells us what ShelterBox means to her on page 18. On behalf of everyone at ShelterBox, I wish you a happy and peaceful 2013.
Laura Jepson, Editor
DISASTER REPORT PAKISTAN Floods
Torrential monsoon rains left tens of thousands of families homeless in the provinces of Balochistan, Punjab and Sindh. ShelterBox, working with the National Rural Support Programme, was able to quickly provide lifesaving aid due to pre-positioned ShelterBoxes located in the capital Islamabad.
WEST AFRICA Floods
Heavy rainfall resulted in widespread flooding across West Africa. A Response Team has been responding to the need for emergency shelter in Niger, Senegal and Nigeria. See page 3 for more details.
SYRIA Conflict
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HAITI & CUBA Hurricane
ShelterBox has been working across the Caribbean to assess the need for emergency shelter following destructive Hurricane Sandy. Low-lying communities in western Haiti were the worst affected, where around 18,000 homes were flooded, damaged or completely destroyed.
GUATEMALA Earthquake
A 7.5-magnitude earthquake caused devastation to homes and infrastructure in Guatemala’s San Marcos region. A second quake just five days later caused fear and panic in the affected communities. A Response Team has been working to help those most in need.
KEEP IN TOUCH
T: 01326 569782 E: info@shelterbox.org ShelterBox: Water-ma-Trout, Helston, Cornwall, TR13 0LW Editor: Laura Jepson (lauraj@shelterbox org) Design: Ki Design (kidesign.co.uk)
Front cover image: Syrian refugee families find safety in northern Iraq Charity No: 1096479 Company No: 4612652 President: HRH The Duchess of Cornwall ShelterBox is a Charity independent of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation.
DISASTER REPORT
Growing violence in Syria has forced hundreds For the very latest news about ShelterBox’s of thousands of families to flee their homes. disaster relief work worldwide visit Many have crossed into neighbouring www.shelterbox.org countries, including Iraq, where ShelterBox has provided tents with an additional thermal layer for extra insulation in the cold climate. For more details see page 5.
EXTENSIVE FLOODING IN WEST AFRICA Following the start of the rainy season, extremely heavy rainfall resulted in widespread flooding across West Africa. ShelterBox Response Teams (SRT) have been responding to the need for emergency shelter in Niger, Senegal and Nigeria.
NIGER
EXTENSIVE FLOODING IN WEST AFRICA
Flooding in Niger caused damage across all eight of its regions, leaving hundreds of thousands of people affected. The damage overwhelmed the already stretched resources of the country, which had received an influx of refugees from neighbouring Mali. SRT volunteers David Hatcher and Joanna Reid travelled to Tillaberi, one of the worst affected regions: ‘We visited several sites; the flood water completely dissolved the clay bricks of the houses and they collapsed into a pile of mud. These families were forced to shelter under tarpaulins held up by sticks which is inadequate for the extreme weather conditions here,’ said Joanna. The team worked closely with the Government of Niger and various humanitarian aid agencies to distribute 257 ShelterBox tents to the worstaffected communities. In Kollo District, about 64 kilometres from the capital Niamey, ShelterBox set up tents for 82 families whose village was completely destroyed when the Niger river burst its banks. Jama Salle is currently living in a ShelterBox tent with her husband and four children. She said: ‘We are happy as the tent is very comfortable. We can sleep easily now’.
SENEGAL
Flooding in the capital Dakar and the surrounding regions left thousands of families homeless. An SRT worked closely with Senegal’s First Lady and her charity, Foundation Servir Le Senegal (FSS), to bring shelter to the most vulnerable displaced families. ‘We visited several schools that were being used to provide temporary shelter, and an exhibition centre that was housing 1,100 people. It had cooking areas, sanitation facilities and fresh water, but the roof leaked every time it rained and it had to be vacated within a few weeks with nowhere for the families to go.’ Ed Owen, SRT volunteer ShelterBox sent disaster relief tents, as well as solar lamps, ground sheets, water filters and carriers, and mosquito nets. Training with the FSS and members of the Senegalese military before aid arrived meant the team could set up camps quickly and efficiently.
NIGERIA
The country’s worst flooding in 50 years damaged homes as well as crops, industrial areas and fisheries. ‘The need is simply huge. Our contacts here estimate that there are more than 200,000 people affected in the Idah district alone’. Mike Greenslade, SRT volunteer The SRT worked closely with key partners, including Rotary, to identify the worst-affected areas and deliver essential aid to families in need. For further information about ShelterBox’s response in Niger and Nigeria please visit www.shelterbox.org
EXTENSIVE FLOODING IN WEST AFRICA
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SYRIA REFUGEE CRISIS IRAQ
More than 3,000 Syrian families made their way to the Domiz refugee camp, 60 kilometres from the Syria-Iraq border. Resources became overstretched as hundreds of new refugees arrived each day and with the onset of harsh winter conditions the need for specialist ‘winterised’ aid increased. When 28-year-old Naif, his pregnant wife Dekhaz and their two young children first arrived at the camp there was no shelter available. They were forced to sleep outside, huddling together for warmth. ShelterBox Response Teams, with the assistance of the Barzani Charity Foundation, worked tirelessly to distribute much-needed aid to 500 vulnerable families.
SYRIA REFUGEE CRISIS
When Naif and his family moved into their ShelterBox tent, Naif said: ‘We are so happy and lucky to have been given this tent. Thank
you so much for all that you have been doing for us. Yes we have had to leave our homes but in this tent we all feel warm and most importantly, safe.’ Naif has also set up a small shop in front of the tent: ‘The business is doing well and we are already thinking about getting a house in Duhok in the not too distant future.’ With restricted access to Syria, ShelterBox has also been exploring ways to distribute aid to families in need through the surrounding nations of Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey.
LEBANON
As the need for emergency shelter grew by the day, a request for aid came to ShelterBox from a consortium of Non-Governmental Organisations in the Bekka region, as well as aid requests for families living in southern Beirut suburbs.
6 What started out as a peaceful protest against Syria’s President, Bashar al-Assad, in March 2011 degenerated into a regional interethnic civil war. The growing violence, sectarian tensions and economic hardship forced more than a million people to flee their homes.
Despite the on-going political tensions, ShelterBox continues to explore options to deliver vital aid with UNHCR (the UN’s agency for refugees) and Lebanon’s Ministry of Social Affairs.
JORDAN
There are 448 ShelterBoxes pre-positioned with the Jordan Red Crescent in the capital Amman. It is hoped that ShelterBox will be able to utilise existing contacts in the country, as well as forming new relationships with local organisations and the Rotary network, to distribute ShelterBoxes to families most in need.
TURKEY
ShelterBox has been looking at options to support organisations in Turkey working with refugees on the north Syrian-Turkish border, although the Turkish Government continues to retain control of assistance to refugees crossing their border. ‘The International Organisation for Migration’s Chief of Mission asked us if we would be willing to explore options with them to provide and distribute winterised tents, kitchen sets, blankets and stoves. It is still at the early stage but it is a good possible avenue for the future.’ Fionn McKee, ShelterBox Operations Coordinator The refugee crisis in Syria is an ongoing and changeable situation. The information provided here was correct at the time of writing. For the latest news please visit www.shelterbox.org.
SYRIA REFUGEE CRISIS
‘We have to stay neutral. It is important that we balance our response across the different religious sects in Lebanon and understand the potential consequences of not doing so.’ Alice Jefferson, ShelterBox Operations Coordinator
SHELTERBOX
A YEAR IN REVIEW
Information for the period of November 2011 - October 2012
CONFLICT
LANDSLIDES
CYCLONE
FLOODING
INFO GRAPHIC
EARTHQUAKE
TYPES OFHURRICANE DISASTERS
EXPLOSION
BOXES PRE-POSITIONED IN 27 LOCATIONS AROUND THE WORLD
TROPICAL STORM
MUDSLIDES
DROUGHT
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OVER 1,100 VOLUNTEER DAYS IN THE FIELD SHELTERBOX DEPLOYMENTS
£153,434
AIR FREIGHT & PASSENGER FLIGHTS DONATED
INFO GRAPHIC
SOMALIA // COLOMBIA // PHILIPPINES (3) // BRAZIL // MADAGASCAR // PERU (2) // REPUBLIC OF CONGO // FIJI // ITALY // SOUTH SUDAN // UGANDA // RUSSIA // NORTH KOREA (DPRK) // LEBANON // NIGER (2) // HAITI // KENYA // USA // SENEGAL // PAKISTAN // KURDISTAN/IRAQ // NIGERIA
NIGER
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‘We came back to the camp to check on the families and see how the tents were holding up. Everyone was very happy. Families told us that when it’s raining the tent is so dry it’s like living in the house they had before the flooding’ David Hatcher, SRT volunteer
INTERVIEW: IAN MUNDAY MBE Ian Munday has been involved with ShelterBox since its inception in 2000. He became Chairman of the Board of Trustees in 2009 and as such plays a pivotal role in the organisation’s governance and strategic management. Ian shares with us ShelterBox’s achievements and challenges of 2012.
INTERVIEW: IAN MUNDAY MBE
What were the key strategic developments in 2012? ShelterBox continued to build partnerships with other International Non-Governmental Organisations. Partnerships with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development (ACTED) have gone from strength to strength and played a vital role in our rapid and effective response to disasters in Haiti, Niger and Kenya. Why are these partnerships so important? Working closely with other humanitarian organisations enables ShelterBox to increase the scale and effectiveness of its operations, for example, joining the United Nation Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD) has enabled us to pre-position aid around the world. Thousands of ShelterBoxes, disaster relief tents and mid-sized tents are now stored in six locations worldwide, including Dubai, Ghana and Panama.
And what about the relationship with Rotary? In March, Rotary International welcomed ShelterBox as its first Rotary project partner; a historic moment as it is the first of its kind. The partnership formalised our 12-year relationship with the Rotary network, who are invaluable to our work here in the UK and in the field. And as a Rotarian myself, I was especially proud. What challenges did ShelterBox face this year? One of the biggest challenges for the Board of Trustees was to provide a clear strategic direction and ensure effective management during a period of significant organisational change. ShelterBox has a talented and dedicated team that will move the organisation forward during the next phase of its growth and development. Also, with few disasters reaching the news headlines, which plays a significant role in the income we receive, it reinforced the importance of raising awareness of the smaller ‘unseen’ disasters we regularly respond to, whilst establishing a diverse range of funding sources to ensure our long-term sustainability. What can we expect from ShelterBox in 2013? Our commitment to providing emergency shelter and vital equipment to families made homeless by disaster remains steadfast and will continue to do so throughout 2013 and beyond.
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How can ShelterBox prepare for the next disaster? By increasing our stock levels, training our staff and volunteers to the highest standards, creating and maintaining key partnerships, and continuing to improve our aid package through constant evaluation and evolution, we can ensure that we have the capability to respond to whatever comes our way.
You’ve been involved with ShelterBox for 12 years, what continues to inspire you?
I am always inspired by the unwavering commitment, dedication and generosity of the volunteers, staff and supporters who make our disaster relief work possible. Whenever I walk through the warehouse and I see volunteers packing ShelterBoxes and aid being loaded onto trucks, it always reminds me that I’m part of something special. I feel proud to work alongside so many passionate people.
INTERVIEW: IAN MUNDAY MBE
Although we do not know when or where the next disaster will happen, we do know that it will occur and our preparedness remains the key to our rapid response and ultimately saving lives.
VOLUNTEERS: THE LIFEBLOOD OF SHELTERBOX Len Szepietowski
VOLUNTEERS: THE LIFEBLOOD OF SHELTERBOX
‘Volunteers are an integral part of ShelterBox’s growth and are the lifeblood of the organisation. Come rain or shine, volunteers both in the UK and around the world constantly go the extra mile to help make a difference. ‘Plus, the support we receive from our volunteers enables us to keep our operating costs low which means even more of our income goes directly on our disaster relief work.’ Elle Fletcher, Volunteering Development Coordinator Meet some of the volunteers who make our work possible… Len Szepietowski, warehouse volunteer. Len has been volunteering in the ShelterBox warehouse for 3 years: ‘Tasks are very varied; they range from unpacking stock as it arrives in bulk, preparing the equipment for a pack, and actually packing the ShelterBoxes themselves. On average we can pack 100 ShelterBoxes an hour and at times of major disaster we can pack 5,000 ShelterBoxes a week by working in shifts. ‘I enjoy volunteering alongside such positive and like-minded people. There is great satisfaction in knowing that I’m helping others and using my retirement productively’.
Sam Hewett, operations & logistics intern. After completing a Masters in Conflict, Security and Development, Sam wanted to gain experience in the humanitarian sector: ‘As a graduate an internship is one of the best ways of getting ‘hands-on’ experience. ‘ShelterBox internships are needs-led so I was involved in assessing the service and value provided by different shipping companies. ‘ShelterBox ensured the internship was a valuable learning experience for me. I gained a better understanding of global humanitarian logistics which I plan to pursue further.’ Betty Pascoe, admin & IT support volunteer. Betty, a retired secondary school teacher, has been supporting ShelterBox for eight years:
‘As well as supporting ShelterBox financially, I wanted to support other areas of their work too. I volunteered in the admin office at first - helping to open all the post and send out letters and fundraising materials to supporters. I spent some time volunteering in the warehouse too. ‘For the last 12 months I’ve been assisting the finance team one day a week by sorting and filing invoices and other financial documents. I’m glad I can help and enjoy meeting other volunteers and staff’. For more information about volunteering for ShelterBox, contact our Volunteer Development Coordinator on 01326 569782 or volunteering@shelterbox.org.
VOLUNTEERS: THE LIFEBLOOD OF SHELTERBOX
As well as packing ShelterBoxes in the warehouse and delivering aid to disasteraffected countries, there are also many essential tasks such as filing, research, IT support, events and warehouse tours that are supported by ShelterBox’s network of dedicated volunteers.
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YOUNG SHELTERBOX The new YSB book is launched! The third book in our disaster series, The Day the Sea Changed, was launched at a special London event on 8 November. ‘The story, about a community hit by a tsunami, helps us all to understand its devastating impact and how ordinary people can pull together to help.’ Emma Nicholls, Young ShelterBox Project Manager The tsunami story is brought to life by artwork from primary school pupils across the UK who entered the third Young ShelterBox illustration competition. Michelle Thompson from King Charles School in Cornwall described the illustration competition as ‘a perfect opportunity to inspire children to explore emotion through art, whilst really tapping into and depicting humanitarian issues’.
YOUNG SHELTERBOX
You can buy The Day the Sea Changed for just £4 at our online shop www.shelterboxshop.org.uk where you can also buy one and get one free on the first two books, The Day the Ground Shook and The Day the Rain Came.
2012: YSB Highlights • We were the National Association of Head Teachers charity of the year • The Greater London South Scouts County Commissioner initiated a county-wide challenge to raise enough money to help more than 100 families in disaster-affected areas • 10,000 scouts registered for the YSB Go Global challenge
2013: What’s coming up? • The 4th YSB illustration competition is launching in February. Will your school or Chatterbooks reading group take part? • The 5th London Scavenger Hunt will take place on 8 June 2013. Registration opens from February. • Could your Scout District or County organise their own Scavenger Hunt? Our new guide will show you how! Available Spring 2013. For further information about any of our Young ShelterBox activities, go to www.youngshelterbox.org or contact the team on 01326 569782 or youngshelterbox@shelterbox.org
SUPPORT SHELTERBOX THROUGH YOUR COMPANY
There are lots of great ways that companies can get involved, from staff fundraising to payroll giving, corporate donations to gifts in kind; we will work with you to decide how best your company can support us. We are also on the lookout for new Charity of the Year partners, so if your workplace has a Charity of the Year programme, why not nominate ShelterBox?
You could follow the example of International Dance Supplies, who raised ÂŁ12,500 for ShelterBox by holding a variety of fundraising events - fancy dress days, cake bakes, market stalls, raffles, tombolas and a charity ball. All their employees really got behind ShelterBox and helped make a difference to families affected by disaster. If you would like to find out more about how ShelterBox works with companies, please contact Maribeth Lloyds, Corporate Fundraising Manager, on 01326 569782 or maribethl@shelterbox.org
SUPPORT SHELTERBOX THROUGH YOUR COMPANY
ShelterBox is on the lookout for new corporate partners to help raise vital funds and awareness for families made homeless by disaster. Supporting ShelterBox through your workplace is a great way to motivate and engage staff, as well as support a fantastic cause!
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WHAT DOES SHELTERBOX MEAN TO YOU?
WHAT DOES SHELTERBOX MEAN TO YOU?
Sue Nelson lives in Cornwall with her two dogs. In 2009, after nearly 33 years of working for the UK Coastguard as a coordinator and trainer of maritime search and rescue, she retired. She now enjoys walking and camping. Sue has also been a committed ShelterBox supporter for more than six years. Here is what ShelterBox means to her: ‘When I first saw ShelterBox what really struck me was just how simple and effective the concept was - an all-in-one solution. It was clear that a lot of thought and consideration had been given to what was essential to survivors after a disaster. ‘Having supported ShelterBox for many years, it has been good to see how the original idea has evolved as a greater understanding of the problems faced is fed back by the Response Teams on the ground.
‘I became a regular contributor because I could see where my money was being spent. Giving to ShelterBox by Standing Order makes it so much easier for me as I’m sure I would forget otherwise. This way I know that the money I am able to give will allow ShelterBox to plan ahead, meaning they can be proactive, not just reactive’.
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SHELTERBOX INBOX What you’ve been saying online… LESLEY SULLEY - The Rotary Club of Colchester Centurion was very pleased to welcome David to our breakfast meeting last week to talk about ShelterBox from a ShelterBox Response Team member’s point of view. We wish him and his colleagues well in Niger and are all thinking about the great work you all do. LOIS LEONARD - I am so glad that I chose ShelterBox as my charity for the OSS River Dart 10km swim challenge as it gave me a real understanding of the importance of shelter, warmth and dignity in ways I wasn’t expecting. OWEN SMITH - Great story about Gaston [from Niger]. This shows how we can all work together to make a difference when people need our help. Don’t do nothing, do something!
HANNAH & ENYA - Thank you so much for your email, it has really made us feel like our fundraising will make a difference! We are glad to have your support. I’m also glad to hear that the money can go where it’s needed most. Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter by telling us why you support ShelterBox: www.facebook.com/shelterboxuk www.twitter.com/shelterboxuk
SHELTEROX INBOX
ADAM POWER - [Annabel] is very enthusiastic and is hoping to raise £500 from her forthcoming walk along the Ridgeway in Wiltshire (she is only 10!)
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