Earthquake relief in a box

By Callan Date
VICTIMS of the devastating earthquake in the Indonesian province of Yogyakarta are temporarily getting their lives back on track thanks to the efforts of the Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills.
The local group has been coordinating the purchase and distribution of ShelterBoxes for some of the occupants of the 130,000 homes that were destroyed by the earthquake last week.
Endeavour Hills Rotary Club member, Martin Pater said 400 ShelterBoxes had been distributed throughout the Yogyakarta region in the past week to provide shelter for more than 8000 people.
“Each ShelterBox contains two 10 person tents which provides warmth, shelter and cover to the occupants who have been displaced from their normal home by the natural disaster,” Mr Pater said.
The Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills has been receiving donations from groups and individuals throughout Australia and New Zealand, which is funding the purchase of the ShelterBoxes and supplies.
Mr Pater said that one ShelterBox costs $1200 and includes many essential items that help the affected people rebuild their communities and lives.
“The boxes also contain 10 sleeping bags, clean water, cooking items, tools, torches and the actual box that transports the goods can be used in a number of ways, too,” he said.
But he said many more people still had no shelter in the earthquake ravaged area and more donations were required to fund further ShelterBoxes.
“We desperately need to send more ShelterBoxes over and the money that we receive will go straight towards buying and transporting more boxes.
“People wishing to donate money are also able to track the destination of the ShelterBox through the internet,” Mr Pater said.
Anyone that is interested in donating funds towards the ShelterBox relief program in Yogyakarta can contact the Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills on 1300 881 913.