Our objective is to design a Humanitarian Emergency Life Package that provides not only immediate emergency response, but also facilitates the subsequent steps of recovery and community rebuilding. At present, many of the first-in response solutions offered by disaster relief organizations are nothing more than a band-aid solution -daily rations delivered in non-reusable packages and blankets for protection from the elements. Our aim in creating STEPS was to go a step beyond meeting basic survival requirements, and to create a system whereby the contents and packaging that provide initial relief also have secondary functions in the recovery process. STEPS has been designed to meet said objectives, as well as to maximize efficiency and reduce waste.

The Designs:

The Wind Breaker The first of these products is a protective windbreaker that can be worn as a poncho or used as a tarp in shelter construction. The windbreaker is constructed from a lightweight, durable and water proof nylon. The windbreaker has simple velcro fasteners that can be closed to create armholes when worn as a poncho, or can function to join together multiple windbreakers to create any size of tarp. The hood is designed with a drawstring to keep rain and wind out when worn; when used as a tarp, the drawstring is used to seal off the hood completely, leaving a solid weatherproof sheet. Beyond providing initial relief from the elements, the windbreaker further encourages community building as each person will need to contribute a piece to shelter they will build together.

The Shipment Tube The tube used for transportation of the emergency package is a cardboard tube that is 6 inches in diameter and five feet long. The tubes themselves are a recycled material as well as being lightweight and highly durable which makes them an inexpensive means of shipping. They also have the added benefit of being individually easily mobile by rolling. Once emptied, these strong cardboard tubes are meant to be used collectively in the community to create the framework of shelters (See diagram).

The Food Container We have designed cans that fit perfectly into the shipment tubes. These cans efficiently use the space provided and serve as a means for delivery of food. The seal is an easily pealed back lid that doesn't leave any sharp edges. The bottom of the can has a smooth edge so it can easily be used as a cooking vessel while the top has a fold out handle so that the emptied can may be used as a carrying container. The seal of the tube is designed such that it may also be used as an eating vessel once removed.