At the Rotary Merimbula market on Sunday 21 February, you might have seen the "Shelterbox" on display, and generously contributed a donation either at the stand or to one of the wishing wells.  In all, almost $1000 was raised for Shelterbox, approximately enough to buy one whole box.  So what does Shelterbox do?

Shelterbox instantly responds to earthquake, volcano, flood, hurricane, cyclone, tsunami or conflict by delivering boxes of aid.

Each box supplies an extended family of up to 10 people with a tent and lifesaving equipment to use while they are displaced or homeless. The contents are tailored depending on the nature and location of the disaster, with great care taken sourcing every item to ensure it is robust enough to be of lasting value.

Only new equipment is used and is carefully selected for durability, practicality and suitability for where it is needed. Tough, lightweight and waterproof, the box itself can also have many useful functions from food container to cot. Shelterbox also continually works with a range of manufacturers to improve the quality and extend the range of equipment available.

A range of equipment is kept in stock. This lets Shelterbox adjust the contents of the box according to local conditions and what is most urgently needed. Sometimes particularly if other resources are available locally and the overwhelming need is for shelter they will just send tents and pack two in each box.  Items may include things like a basic tool kit, cooking pots, and survival equipment such as thermal blankets and ground sheets.

The cost of a box is about AU$1200, including delivery direct to those who need it. Each box bears its own unique number so as a donor you can track your box all the way to its recipient country via the website.

Highly trained ShelterBox Response Teams distribute boxes on the ground, working closely with local organisations, international aid agencies and Rotary clubs worldwide.

Since its inception in 2000, ShelterBox has firmly established itself at the forefront of international disaster relief, providing emergency shelter for the people who need it most on every continent.