I am going on my 15th year in the tubular steel building system industry and can say that my most rewarding aspect of my career is the pleasure of working with Worldwide Shelters in their mission of providing shelter and housing through their humanitarian efforts. I'm intrigued by their constant determination of not only providing shelter/housing; but making sure the particular type of shelter is the right application for that geographic area or country. 100% of their donor money goes toward providing efficiency homes, transitional shelters and disaster relief shelters. I admire there commitment to accommodating shelters “in-need” whether a result of a natural disaster or war, or just poverty stricken communities in general.
My most recent experience was accompanying Jeannie McMahon of WWS to Zimbabwe, Africa where our mission was to erect 6 structures donated to the Voice of Peace Orphanage. These structures donated by Worldwide Shelters replaced their existing tattered and barely functional classrooms with new structures produced by VersaTube. The mission trip was a success as it positively changed the outlook and potential of The Daniel Academy in Harare’s outskirt community. I cannot speak the level of gratitude and appreciation we received from the students as they too participated in the erection process. These classrooms will provide protection and sanction needed to fulfill their continued education and dreams.
The MICA shelter project is a design project by a groupd of Environmental Design students at the Maryland Institute, College of Art. Our program is small and a bit under-funded compared to other programs on campus... so when we managed to wrap up the design of our transitional shelter concept, and began looking into prospects for prototyping the design, Worldwide Shelters stepped in and helped support the effort. They funded the purchase of our metal framing system that was the backbone of the concept... and when it arrived mid-semester, it was the first time the project seemd like it might come to fruition. The students got re-energized in the project and really began working overtime to see if we could complete the construction in time for the end of the semester. We got close, and are still trying to finish it up now, but at least we will get it done!... beyond this, Worldwide Shelters has been one of our biggest advocates, connecting us with other organizations and other opportunities that have similar interests or similar outlooks. The connectivity this organization has with other organizations is fantastic. And I hope that the relationship I have with the folks at WWS continues to grow as we share and exchange ideas!
I have to say that being involved with social projects is the best experience I've had in my entire life. And getting to know Jeannie and this great organization, has been wonderful too. It is absolutely amazing and a great relief to know there is people who work for this cause. I want this opportunity to congratulate Jeannie and Worldwide Shelters Organization for their great job!
WorldWide Shelter is the only true, post-disaster, transitional shelter. It is the only solution that can be implemented quickly in the immediate response phase of the disaster and truly transition into the recovery and long-term recovery phases. Most recently, I participated in numerous WorldWide Shelter projects in Haiti.
WorldWide Shelter has developed a durable, light-weight, steel frame structure that is deployed and assembled in the field as quickly as a tent, but then strong enough to become the framing for a permanent structure. During the response phase, the frame comes with a pre-fit canvas covering or can be covered with tarps commonly provided by the international response NGO’s. Once affected populations have access to their property or land becomes available, they can start rebuilding permanent structures reutilizing the reassembled asset of the steel frame.
Local materials and acceptable cultural designs can be used supported by the strength and security of the steel framework. Materials such as metal, wood, or tiles can be used as roofing. Siding options are as varied as the local materials available – brick, bamboo, wood, earth – all have been used as permanent cladding material around the WorldWide Shelter frame. It is robust enough that it can serve users well for protracted periods. With time to consider their options, governments, communities and families are less likely to build the wrong type of housing, use the wrong building technologies or rebuild in the wrong places. At the same time, this approach to transitional shelter avoids the wasted time, effort and resources inherent in the traditional sheltering approach of moving from tarps then to tents and then to semi-permanent structures. The structure can be adapted and improved as resources become available to the family, preserving and encouraging the independence, the fortitude, and the culture of the community.
WorldWide Shelter does much more than provide shelter. WorldWide Shelter is a true humanitarian organization committed to upholding the dignity and value of people, no matter their current circumstances. They are committed to exemplary stewardship of funds, with 100% of donations going to the provision of shelter. And they are committed to the belief, that all people have the right to safe, secure shelter.
Worldwide Shelters is a one of a kind organization with passion and conviction to make a change. It is a devastating statistic that there are almost 43 million people in the world that do not have a permanent home. Too often we see a sea of tarps after a natural disaster that is supposed to serve as a temporary solution. Unfortunately, problems will plague a region for years to come that communities continue to live in these horrible conditions. The Worldwide Shelter solution is so simple, durable and cost effective. A quality shelter that gives immediate protection, strength and a place to call home. Too many lives are compromised due to inadequate shelter. One of the many great things about WWS is that the solution ignites the foundation for a new beginning for the community. Once the foundation of the structure is established (in a matter of hours), the community can use a tarp for immediate shelter and or build around the frame using their choice of natural resources. The community becomes builders instead of victims.
When Worldwide Shelters went on a joint mission with Samaritans Feet and Versatube Building Products to build shelters for The Voices of Peace orphanage in Harare, Zimbabwe. We were very excited to begin the project by supplying six 16' x 16' frames and roofs, along with funds to purchase the preferred local building material: African brick. The original intent was for the shelters to be dormitories, but upon arrival the community felt the need was much greater for school buildings. The whole community came out to participate. They helped lay the foundation, erect the frames, and helped in every other aspect of the project. Although I was not there to experience the love and gratitude from the orphanage, I was proud to be one of the donors that made this a reality for so many children. The pictures of their smiles warm my heart. Because WWS is committed to the promise that 100% of our donations goes to the shelter solution, I know that my donation is a direct contribution to their big grins.
At times I feel the shelter challenge is so vast, it's hard to know where to begin. What's beautiful about WWS is that only $1,000 can give someone a HOME! Thank you, WorldWide Shelters!!