Who we are - our kaupapa
ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity dedicated to providing people with the materials and support to rebuild and recover following disaster and conflict.
The ShelterBox story begins in the year 2000, when the Rotary Club of Helston Lizard in Cornwall (UK), championed a simple idea to package up essential shelter items and deliver them to those affected by disaster.
Good people inspired do something for others often left with nothing, in the aftermath of disaster.
They initially hoped to help 8-10 families per year. Helping just one person is a great thing! Twenty-four years later, their work has seen ShelterBox support over 2.5 million people and counting.
ShelterBox is a global movement, dedicated to transforming despair into hope for those who need it most. We’ve grown a lot since our simple and humble beginning but our focus remains the same – working for a world where no one is without shelter following disaster or conflict.
SHELTERBOX NEW ZEALAND
ShelterBox New Zealand is an Affiliate of the ShelterBox Trust and a registered charity in New Zealand that has been a part of the global ShelterBox network since 2007.
We have a team of volunteers who share their passion for international disaster relief with us by serving as the executive team and board.
In addition, we have dedicated community volunteers who raise awareness and funds to support our vision of “No one without shelter after disaster.”
And in New Zealand, there are three New Zealand ShelterBox Response Team members who work tirelessly with the rest of the international Response Team to deliver aid to those who need it around the world.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to provide shelter, essential items and technical assistance to help some of the world’s most vulnerable people recover and rebuild their homes after disaster.
We listen and adapt our support to the needs of each community, working together with those affected by disaster, alongside our supporters and partners.
What's important to us
Putting people first
We’re determined to see a world where no one goes without shelter when disaster strikes – it’s the sole reason we exist. People come first. Every decision we make is based on those we help, on transforming lives, on rebuilding hope.
Embracing change
We’re not scared of change; we embrace it, nurture it, encourage it. Every disaster is different and so is every response. We keep evolving to make sure we get the exact support families need in the best possible way.
Going the extra mile
We are dynamic. We work with other organisations, global partners and, most importantly, the people we help, to develop our expertise. We don’t just use our past experience to guide our future, but we keep learning, which is why we are experts in shelter.
Treading our own path
We’ve always been different, but that’s a good thing. We step out of the mainstream, muddy our boots and cut through red tape to help the people others can’t or won’t reach.
Building relationships
We have strong bonds, just like the communities we help. ShelterBox is made up of dedicated staff, supporters and volunteers. Together, we bring the knowledge, vitality and conviction to go further – faster.
The tent and other items we have been given have made my life so much better. I can sleep at night and stay with my family peacefully.
-Modu Gambo, Minawao Refugee Camp, Cameroon
The box means so much because we are too scared to try and enter the house to retrieve our belongings. Now we have a place to live and the things to make our life better. Thank you ShelterBox.
-Ismail, Malaysia