The Shelter Box is a Milan-based social initiative that's helping the homeless population survive. Spring and summer in Milan sees a reduced number of available beds for homeless men and women. Countless members of the homeless population find themselves with nowhere to go once the winter emergency is over, and are often left with no choice but to return to the streets.
Non-profit organization MIA aims to combat this occurrence with a simple, multi-functional solution known as The Shelter Box. With a simple and easy-to-assemble design, The Shelter Box is helping the marginalized and vulnerable homeless community live their day-to-day lives.
The uncomplicated design is made from the same resistant cardboard that shops use and can easily transform into a table or chair, a bed, or a suitcase, so the men and women can carry their belongings around from place to place.
The sustainable and socially innovative design won't eradicate homelessness, but it's a progressive step towards a world that sees, understands and finds practical solutions for inequalities.
Portable Homeless Shelters
'The Shelter Box' Provides Protection to Those Without Homes
Trend Themes
1. Multi-functional Homeless Shelters - The Shelter Box provides a simple and easy-to-assemble design that can transform into a table or chair, a bed, or a suitcase, offering a practical solution for homelessness.
2. Sustainable Design Solutions - The use of resistant cardboard in The Shelter Box provides a sustainable and socially innovative solution for homeless individuals, addressing practical inequalities.
3. Portable Housing for the Homeless - The Shelter Box allows homeless individuals to carry their belongings from place to place, providing a portable housing option to help address the lack of available beds in certain seasons.
Industry Implications
1. Non-profit Organizations - Non-profit organizations, such as MIA, can explore innovative solutions like The Shelter Box to combat homelessness and provide practical support to vulnerable populations.
2. Cardboard Manufacturing - Manufacturers in the cardboard industry can explore the production of resistant cardboard for use in multi-functional homeless shelters, offering a socially responsible product.
3. Social Innovation - Social innovation organizations can leverage The Shelter Box as an example of how simple design solutions can address practical inequalities and contribute to positive societal change.