Frequently asked questions
100% of your donation will be used to fund (parts of) a shelter and/or shipping of a shelter to one of our projects. All parts purchased through the shop are symbolic, to ensure that our resources reach the people who need them most.
The shelter is 17.5 m2 (L 5.68 m x W 3.32 m x H 2.83 m) and designed for five residents, in accordance with humanitarian standards.
The roof and wall panels are made of a plastic foam and the frame is made of steel. It is designed for contexts with an urgent need for shelter but without access to local building materials. The shelter’s roof and walls can be replaced by local materials would they become available at a later stage.
The Structure frame is made of steel.
Minimum three years, but the lifespan also depends on where and how the shelter is used and maintained. It is designed to be upgraded over time with local material which will extends its lifespan significantly.
The frame lasts for at least ten years, and the entire shelter’s lifespan will depend on the wall and roof material used, the building techniques and the maintenance of the shelter.
We work in close collaboration with a wide network of non governmental organisations and UN agencies around the world. We provide the shelters, guidance and support, and our partners make sure that the shelters reach the families and the programs in the greatest need.
Yes. While it was developed as temporary housing, thousands of shelters serve as health clinics, child friendly spaces, offices, classrooms and even libraries.
Better Shelter is a Swedish non-profit organisation owned by the philanthropic Housing for All Foundation, which was established by the IKEA Foundation (the IKEA company’s philanthropic arm). Better Shelter is driven by a mission to achieve social impact and improve people’s lives – not to make profit.
We collaborate with some of the world’s leading agencies, including the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), The Red Cross and UNICEF. Find out more about us here.