From Bill Tobin, ShelterBox USA Rotary Relations Manager
"ShelterBox is working hard to provide families with shelter and other vital aid in global areas that are most susceptible to, and least prepared for, the covid-19 pandemic. While this health danger is impacting all of us, people living in refugee camps or makeshift settlements are particularly vulnerable. Shelter is a critical need for people who are simply struggling to survive after losing their home to disaster or conflict. The pandemic adds several layers of complexity in our global relief efforts but ShelterBox is doing all we can to stay ahead of the curve.
Join ShelterBox USA President Kerri Murray for a live briefing to hear how our work is continuing during these difficult times
Wednesday, April 1, 2020 7:00 PM EDT or
Thursday, April 2, 2020 at 1:00 pm EDT
Reminder, ShelterBox staff and volunteers are also available to speak to your clubs, or districts online.
Here is a recap of ShelterBox activity this week.
Ethiopia – Due to the spread of the Coronavirus, Ethiopia has closed all borders, except for goods. It is anticipated our aid can still be imported. A shipment of aid to support 3,500 Households (HHs) with emergency shelter is due to sail from Dubai in the next few days. We continue to monitor for any further measures that might affect this response.
Somaliland – Following last week’s completion of the first phase, the second phase is underway to support 540 HHs. The aid for the second phase has arrived and is currently clearing customs. However, phase two of the project is currently subject to a 4-week delay, due to Coronavirus restrictions. We are working to mitigate the risks around Coronavirus to both aid workers and the affected communities.
Cameroon – A shipment of aid arrived into Cameroon at the end of last week. A further shipment of 223 tents is due to arrive at the end of this week, and additional tents are due to arrive in April. Due to Coronavirus, the Cameroonian government announced that they were closing all land, air and sea borders, with some exceptions for freight movements. It is anticipated that our aid can still be imported, although some delays are expected.
Syria – Currently there has been limited impact on the project due to Coronavirus, but this could change at short notice. In Idlib, work continues with in country partners to build in contingencies and ensure their local staff are taking necessary precautions. We have stock currently warehoused in Iraq awaiting permission to enter Syria. There are some restrictions at the border, but it is not yet known how these will impact the project.
Thank you, stay healthy.
Bill Tobin
Mobile: 916.616.6973"