Start Today and Rebuild Together (START) is a construction industry alliance between ABC and the Modular Building Institute (MBI). START was formed to leverage the resources of the construction industry, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and government agencies to respond quickly and efficiently with relief and rebuilding efforts following natural disasters. The first initiative, START Haiti, is helping the country rebuild after January’s 7.0 magnitude earthquake. START Haiti gives ABC and MBI member companies an avenue for raising funds and sending modular containers outfitted with medical supplies to Haiti. For START Haiti, MBI and ABC member companies are raising funds to provide 12 modified containers filled with medical supplies. Nongovernmental organizations will deliver and set up the modular units. Additional phases of START Haiti include establishing a base camp for volunteers, constructing permanent housing and commercial infrastructure, raising awareness, and lobbying for funds and long-term assistance. The first unit for START Haiti was donated by Universal Modular directly to Project Hope, the second by Wilmot Modular Structures, Inc. to Architecture for Humanity and the third by Provincial Partitions to Digicel. The organizations also donated the supplies contained in the units.
The modified containers have a screen door and a window on one end and a window on the other end. Inside, the container has painted drywall, five electrical outlets and two overhead lights.
How to Donate All donations for START Haiti will be made directly to Volunteers of America Southeast. Click on the red button, select the amount you would like to donate and select START Haiti at the bottom of the donations page.
Sample contents of containers when shipped: :: (1) metal double bunk bed with mattresses :: (1) small A/C window unit :: (1) floor fan :: 7,000 watt diesel generator :: (1) small (dorm style) refrigerator :: 50 lb. bags of rice (Sam's Club, Costco, etc.) :: 50 lb. bags of beans :: Other non-perishable food items :: Tarps (any size) :: Canvas tents (5-10 person tents, not lightweight)
As well as any of the following hygiene supplies: :: Toothbrushes and toothpaste :: Soaps/shampoo :: Cream and lotions Follow START on Facebook and Twitter. Photos an MBI member took during a recent trip to Haiti.