ShelterBoxes is a UK-based disaster relief organization supported by Rotary clubs around the world. In Rotary District 7210 Suffern Rotarian Larry Palant is ShelterBox Coordinator and Disaster Relief Chair. For this interview, Mr. Palant details how the ShelterBoxes function. Each box is filled with critical necessities for keeping at least 10 victims of disasters alive for a minimum of six months. The usual contents include a 10-person tent, sleeping mats, mosquito netting, a stove and cooking implements, emergency water purification supplies, and hand tools, but tot total weighs only about 110 lbs. A Disaster Relief Team comprised of highly skilled specialists accompanies the Boxes until they reach their destination. Each ShelterBox is often able to utilize the international communications network of local Rotary clubs to bypass red tape that can hinder effective emergency response.
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