Locally made Shelterbags by Sheltersuit SA are being sent to assist with the refugee crisis in Europe following the war that has broken out in Ukraine.
Cape Town, South Africa (12 April 2022) – 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, it 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 ten women, and they have worked tirelessly to make sure they have enough stock to help the homeless through winter. Aside from preparing for the South African winter, the organisation has also upped their game and started making Shelterbags for the refugees of Ukraine.
The original Sheltersuit has been adapted into the Shelterbag, which was also designed by Bas Timmer. It 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.’
By using the local teams, the organisation is able to continue providing employment and help with an international crisis.
A Helping Hand in Ukraine
Rotary International has funded 450 Shelterbags which are being sent to Ukraine. The bags will come in handy now as Europe heads into their summer season.
“Many people who stayed behind have lost access to heating and their homes, with some taking refuge in metro stations out in the winter cold. We have managed to localize where we and our partners can be of help together for the needs of those affected.
In response to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, The Rotary Foundation had created an official channel for donors around the world to contribute funds to support the the relief efforts underway by Rotary districts and has designated its Disaster Response Fund as the main avenue for contributions.”
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