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Scouts distribute ShelterBoxes in Guatemala
11/08/2010
Scouts in storm-ravaged Guatemala are helping ShelterBox Response Team volunteers (SRTs) to provide emergency aid to homeless families. In June, devastating tropical storms hit the Central American country, forcing tens of thousands of people from their homes.
ShelterBox, a disaster relief charity and official Scout partner, leapt into action deploying 400 boxes packed with essential survival equipment including tents, cooking utensils, blankets and children’s packs.
These boxes are sent our alongside the ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) volunteers, who rely on the help and support of local organisations and Rotary contacts to supply aid fairly and efficiently. Often this means SRTs are put in touch with local Scouts.
‘Inspiring to be around’
‘Inspiring to be around’
Jodie Hurt, SRT (UK), said: ‘Our Rotary contacts in the country put us in touch with members of the Asociación de Scouts de Guatemala. We trained them in putting our tents up and using our equipment and then they worked with us to distribute aid. We also used their secure Scout headquarters to store our boxes in safely.
‘The Scouts we worked with were amazing - so helpful and hardworking. They picked up the training really quickly and were inspiring to be around.’
Making a difference
Making a difference
UK Scouts continue to do their bit for ShelterBox. In the past three months, thousands of pounds have been raised through events as diverse as penny bazaars, all night bike rides, the hugely successful London Scavenger Hunt and Gilwell 24.
James Webb, Fundraising Coordinator, said: ‘A huge thanks goes out to all those Scout Groups who continue to support us and our work. Your support makes a huge and direct difference to people around the world.
‘The link between the Scouts and ShelterBox is a natural one and we hope it continues long into the future.’
Further information
Scouts wanting to learn more about ShelterBox can take up the ShelterBox Challenge – ten activities for ten months to celebrate the charity’s tenth birthday. To find out more and download the resources go to the Scouts area of the Young ShelterBox website.
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