ShelterBox

Cornwall-based charity ShelterBox is doing its part to support people fleeing Ukraine - and struggling within Ukraine - due to the Russian invasion. By collaborating with humanitarian service Rotary, as well as local authorities, ShelterBox worked to determine what forms of shelter and aid are most suitable. This also helped them decide which locations made sense for the organization's workers to attend. “Hundreds of thousands of people have already crossed Ukraine's borders and that number is rising quickly as the situation continues to deteriorate,” Chief Executive Sanj Srikanthan told Cornwall Live recently. “The indications are that this will not be a short conflict. ShelterBox is responding and sending a team to the region who will be positioned to inform how we respond and coordinate our work.” Founded in 2000, ShelterBox provides emergency shelter and essential items to people after disaster. Tents, solar lights, water filters, and mosquito nets are a few of the things the charity can donate. According to the organization's U.K. website, the charity is partnering with People in Need to send mattresses to those sheltering in Ukraine's schools or sports centres. They are also supporting those fleeing the country by providing “high priority items,” such as hygiene products. “Every disaster is different, so we have a flexible approach. We listen and learn from the communities we work with to make sure we provide the right support,” reads the website. In addition to its work aid to Ukraine, ShelterBox has sent volunteers to nations such as the Philippines, Haiti, and Yemen.