Last year we introduced you all to the Sheltersuit, and since then, an innovative Shelterbag has been created to help the homeless cope with our climate.
Cape Town, South Africa (25 May 2021) – The Sheltersuit was developed by Bas Timmer in the Netherlands, Europe, as an answer to the influx of refugees who were left homeless in a foreign place. The suit offered protection from cold weather that many refugees had never experienced before. As the organisation grew, they employed the very refugees they were working to save.
Soon, the suits were being made by the refugees, for refugees. As the suits got international recognition, the global foundation was established. They now work in countries across the globe, including South Africa!
The production factory currently employs 10 women, and they have worked tirelessly to make sure they have enough stock to help the homeless through winter.
The original Sheltersuit has been adapted. The Shelterbag, also designed by Bas Timmer, is made in South Africa and is specifically adapted to warmer climates and provides protection from the wind and rain. It is compact, lightweight and allows for unsheltered people to easily transport it with them wherever they go as a daily-use bag, so their goods are protected and in one place.
‘The Shelterbag is a portable, sheltered bed that rolls up into a bag. It is waterproof, lightweight, easy to handle and has an extra compartment for some personal items. It comes with a sleeping bag and a built-in pillow but also has room for an extra mattress or blanket, making it adaptable for all seasons. A flexible tent pole is integrated into the hood to keep it upright, providing more space and better shelter from the rain.’
Winter is setting in, and in the Western Cape, the bitter cold is accompanied by heavy rains, ice-cold storms brought in from the ocean and wind. It makes being homeless in the winter, incredibly challenging! The Sheltersuit Foundation has asked local NPOs to reach out if they are in need of the innovative new bags.
“The Sheltersuit Foundation is always looking to get in touch with NGO’s. Together we can provide warmth to those who need it most. Please reach out to us if your organizsation is in need of Sheltersuits, Shelterbags or if you just want to exchange thoughts on how we can work together.”
You can follow Sheltersuit South Africa here for more information about how to help our local homeless community. NPOs are encouraged to reach out via the official website, which you can find here.