Tent vinyl is built to be strong and weather-resistant. Even after it is retired from rental and event use, it can still protect a family from the elements. The Second Life Project gives that material a new purpose instead of a place in a landfill.
“Our business is built on fabric that stands up to wind, rain and sun,” said Keith Krzeminski, vice president of Shelter Structures America and a MATRA board member. “When a tent top comes out of rental service, that strength does not disappear. The Second Life Project lets our industry put that material where it matters most: over the heads of families who have lost their homes. We are proud to stand with MATRA and Every Shelter and to encourage our customers and partners to do the same.”
Why it matters
Displacement is rarely a short-term emergency. According to MATRA, families in displacement settlements often remain there for eight to 15 years. They need materials they can build with, improve and rebuild over time, not just a temporary tent.
Every Shelter’s A-frame design answers that need. A family can build it in a single day, and the design was developed with the community so families can expand and adapt it as their lives change.
The impact of one container
| Measure | One shipping container |
| Tent vinyl diverted from landfills | 150,000 square feet |
| Homes supported | 400 |
| Cost to ship | $10,000 |
| Cost to provide shelter material for one family | $25 |
How Shelter Structures America is helping
- Contributing funds toward the cost of shipping containers.
- Identifying retired tent vinyl across its distribution network for future recovery efforts.
- Encouraging its rental customers and fellow MATRA members to donate vinyl and funds.
- Sharing the project with clients across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
“Rental companies have the material. Every Shelter has the design, the process and the community partnerships,” said Krzeminski. “What is needed now is help funding the journey, and every $25 puts a family under a stronger roof.”
How to get involved
Tent rental companies, manufacturers and anyone in the event industry can support the project by donating, flagging used tent vinyl for recovery and spreading the word. Learn more at matramembers.org/page/Second-Life-Project.
About Shelter Structures America
Shelter Structures America is a leading distributor of large temporary structures, including clear span tents and buildings. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Valencia, California, the company has distribution centers in California, Illinois, Arizona and Virginia and serves clients across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. It offers turnkey solutions from consultation and engineering through production and delivery. Learn more at shelterstructuresamerica.com.
About MATRA
The Manufacturers and Tent Renters Association was founded in 1987 by rental companies and vendors seeking stronger relationships across the tent industry. Its mission is to uphold safe practices and promote the professionalism and integrity of the tent rental industry through education, networking and leadership development. Learn more at matramembers.org.
About Every Shelter
Every Shelter works with displaced communities to create practical, durable shelter solutions that can be built and improved by the people who use them. Learn more at everyshelter.org.
https://www.shelterstructuresamerica.com/
Source: Shelter Structures America
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