Shelterbox Aug17 Newsletter

A distribution of 'Non-Food Items' in Koulkime, Cameroon, July 2017

 

This month's newsletter focuses on two recurring themes that demonstrate the evolution of ShelterBox and the world of disaster relief. Partnerships are essential to the way we operate and help ensure that donor's money is used effectively and is not tied up in unnecessary administration. Our Project Partnership with Rotary International is perhaps the most important of these relationships, allowing both organisations to have global reach in the provision of emergency shelter. As you will read in the operations update, other partnerships, with organisations like ACTED, Action Aid and IEADA, utilize local connections and exiting networks to provide essential aid to those in need.

 

The second recurring theme is flexibility and the ability to respond with aid that is appropriate to the need. In Somaliland we've deployed ShelterBoxes with tarpaulins instead of tents. In Iraq we've supplied sealing-off kits to make warehouses and unfinished buildings habitable. In Cameroon, it's SchoolBoxes, AMG tents and hygiene kits. One size does not fit all.

 

We will continue to evolve and change with the times and hope that will continue with us on this journey as we strive towards a world where no family goes without shelter.

 

This month's quote comes from clever chap, Albert Einstein, "The measure of intelligence is the ability to change."

 

Please feel free to contact me if you have any queries.

 

All the best

 

Mike

 

Mike Greenslade

CEO ShelterBox Australia

0459 959 501

mike.greenslade@shelterbox.org.au

 

 

 

 

The Lake Chad Basin countries of Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon and Niger are enduring a severe and oft ignored crisis. Up to 17 million people are affected by extreme climatic shocks and the threat of extremist terrorism. Over 3 million have unmet shelter needs. ShelterBox has been working with IEDA in Cameroon since 2015 helping Nigerian refugees fleeing Boko Haram violence. Train the trainer sessions have helped IEDA make the most of the ShelterKits distributed for the first time in the country. Meanwhile, 100 SchoolBoxes, 660 AMG Relief tents (as pictured above) and 1320 hygiene kits are en route for distribution.

 

 

 SOMALILAND - Displacement caused by drought

 

 

Severe drought has affected many of the 1.5 million nomads in Somaliland, forcing them to leave traditional lands in search of pasture. As the men and older boys try to keep their livestock alive, many female-headed households are left vulnerable. ShelterBox has been working with Action Aid to provide shelter support and other essential items. 441 custom-packed ShelterBoxes have been distributed. The boxes contain tarpaulins instead of tents as this suits the nomadic lifestyle of the beneficiaries.

 

 

 

On 10th July, the Iraqi Prime Minister declared the siege of Mosul to be over. The battle to rid the ancient city of ISIS fighters has left hundreds of thousands homeless. As the fighting has ceased, the humanitarian effort can be stepped up. ShelterBox has been working with French agency, ACTED to provide targeted aid to help those affected. The type of aid deployed is determined by beneficiary needs. Thus far we have supplied AMG Relief tents; UN-spec tents; ShelterKits and tarpaulins; and sealing off kits for converting warehouses to habitable accommodation. Added to these shelter solutions are essential non-food items like solar lights, blankets and kitchen sets. Since October 2016, we have provided aid to over 2200 families

 

 

 

 

 

12-year old Laen Wilkin completed his fundraising bike ride yesterday at the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse. On his 4-day adventure, Laen gave presentations on ShelterBox at 3 public schools, spoke to the Ballina Advocate newspaper, and garnered support from people he met along the way. His efforts have raised the profile of ShelterBox in the region and over $1,066 for disaster relief. Well done Laen, a truly inspirational effort. Those wishing to support his efforts can donate via: Ballina to Byron Bike Ride

 

 

 

 

Congratulations to ShelterBox Ambassadors, Lorraine and Peter Croft for adding a second sapphire to their Paul Harris Fellowship, for their services to ShelterBox. The couple, who have raised over $250,000 in their Rotary District are shown here with Past District 9670 Governor, Steve Jackson and their grandson, Alexander. Well-deserved recognition for a hard-working and dedicated team!

 

 

There are only a few tickets left for the 47th Ladies Seminar and luncheon. Organised by the Rotary Club of South Perth Burswood, speakers include triathlete, Renee Baker, WA designer, Liz Davenport and oncologist, Arlene Chan. For more information and to book your ticket, visit: 

 

 

 

ShelterBox Australia has been accepted by good2give, Australia's leading payroll-giving organisation. Good2give make it easy for businesses and individuals to support the charity of their choice. Ask at your workplace or visit: https://good2give.ngo/ to find out more. Many employers (60% of those registered) will match your gift and double the impact you have on families in need.

 

mike.greenslade@shelterbox.org.au

 

 

                                            
 

 

   ShelterBox Australia is a registered charity with DGR 1 status. ShelterBox Australia is recognised by the ATO as a Public Benevolent Institution and endorsed by DFAT's Overseas Aid Gift Deduction Scheme. ShelterBox is a Project Partner of Rotary International, independent of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation.

 

Web | www.shelterboxaustralia.com.au  Blog | www.shelterboxaustralia.wordpress.com

 

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