More than 123 million people around the world are currently displaced, and that number could rise above 250 million by 2050. That was the message shared by Stephanie Christensen, Executive Director of ShelterBox, during a recent presentation highlighting the growing global need for emergency shelter. Christensen says displacement refers to the forced movement of people from their homes due to conflict, environmental disasters, or other crises.
With safe shelter in place, families can begin to rebuild their homes, restore livelihoods, and reconnect with their communities.
Since 2012, ShelterBox has served as Rotary International’s official project partner for disaster relief, working alongside Rotarians to reach vulnerable communities. The organization provides durable disaster-resistant tents, shelter kits, tools, water purification, solar lights, blankets, and cooking equipment, all tailored to local needs.
Christensen highlighted recent responses in places such as Jamaica, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Cameroon, where ShelterBox delivered aid within days of disasters. She closed with a personal story from Fiji, where ShelterBox provided the only shelter aid to a remote island after a devastating cyclone. She personally helped a woman named Diane setup her shelter.
Former Simcoe Rotarians Bob and Joyce Perks left a $45,000 donation in their will to support an international Rotary project. Christensen said she was excited to accept the gift and announced a new campaign for ShelterBox.
She went on to outline the new memorial campaign aimed at expanding Rotary support across Canada, helping more families receive what she called “the gift of home” in honour of Bob and Joyce’s legacy.
Written by Jeremy Hall