I'm helping out TexMex to keep the momentum going on the Shelter Box effort.
Update on how we are doing:
79 ShelterBoxes and $120 dollars!!!!
per TexMex on Wed., January 20, 2010 at 03:09 PM
This site has already done some amazing things on this effort, as well as important causes we have addressed in the past. Thank you Daily Kos and all the great Kossaks!!
We are working with ShelterBox, USA in this effort.
"ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity that delivers emergency shelter, warmth and dignity to people affected by disaster worldwide." This quote is from their web site.
Ways to donate, with links, follow in the body of this diary.
Use your cell phone to make a one-time US$5 donation to the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund.
Text ROTARY to 90999
Here is the ShelterBox secure donation page: Note: They only accept Visa and MC.
https://app.etapestry.com/...
Much more information on the ShelterBox organization and what is being done in Haiti, at the following three links.
United States Shelterbox page
http://www.shelterboxusa.org/
Canada Shelterbox
http://www.shelterbox.ca/
ShelterBox home page
http://shelterbox.org/
TexMex has received emails from ShelterBox USA thanking us for our efforts! (See previous diary from TexMex for the details.) There is also some information about questions and answers.
Just in - from TexMex - Questions and Answers
Are any boxes packed in the U.S. ?
No. All boxes are packed in our warehouse in Cornwall, England. However, we do keep track of how many boxes are donated via U.S. sources.
Can people volunteer?
The ShelterBox Response Team is full up with volunteers at the moment (we undergo a rigorous training process that involves a 3-day vetting process as well as a 9-day test and training), but our Lakewood Ranch, Florida office always has administrative duties that need completing. To do that, call (941) 907 6036. We also make an attempt to educate as many people as we can about the box, so that we have many representatives around the world who can speak about ShelterBox and spread the news about the work we do. If you'd like to get involved in that, you can also phone the above number.
What does being on standby till April mean?
The ShelterBox Response Team has been asked to update our individual availability through April 30th, so those of us who are available to go to one of our four logistical hubs to help manage our response to this disaster on short notice can expect to be called at any given moment. Essentially, it means that we'll be in Haiti at least until April 30th.
Are the books for the children in their own language?
Great question--the books are all coloring and sticker books (we also send crayons), so no words are used in the books.
Thanks!
Yi Sh**
Here is a typical ShelterBox
ShelterBoxes Arrive in Haiti
ShelterBoxes in Use