Appel & Ei supports our mission with an annual financial contribution, allowing us to continue our work of transforming discarded materials into life-saving Sheltersuits. Additionally, they raise awareness about homelessness across their stores, shining a light on this pressing issue in the cities where their stores are located.
This collaboration goes beyond sustainability—it also addresses the social aspect of our mission. Sheltersuits are made in our social atelier in Enschede by people with barriers to the job market, including refugees and those with a distance to employment. This not only provides them with meaningful work but also helps them integrate into society, preparing them for future employment.
Through our joint efforts, we aim to raise awareness about homelessness, a problem that exists even in the cities where Appel & Ei stores operate. By working together, we amplify our impact, bringing warmth, dignity, and protection to those in need while promoting a sustainable and just future.
With your donations, we can make and distribute many more Sheltersuits. For this distribution, we’ve teamed up with local aid organizations to ensure that the Sheltersuits reach those who need them most.
The involved aid groups, thanks to their years of experience and their network, know the local conditions well and know exactly where help is needed and what actions need to be taken. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the situation for people living on the streets without a fixed address has become tougher and more dangerous. Important services like warming stations or direct cold relief are sometimes not accessible.
Even though the main goal is always to find permanent shelter for people, it’s a crucial first step to help immediately – with warmth and dignity. That’s the united goal of everyone involved.
The Sheltersuit is a wind and waterproof jacket with an optional sleeping bag attachment to provide instant protection. The Sheltersuit includes a jacket, a sleeping bag, and a duffel bag. The jacket is made from high-quality, breathable tent material. The lining is made from upcycled sleeping bags, making each Sheltersuit unique.
The large hood protects the face from rain and streetlights and has a built-in scarf. The suit was designed to be worn in cold climates.
