Immediate shelter is paramount in emergencies. In the days and weeks after a crisis, CRS distributes tarpaulins, rope and other building materials that provide short-term protection from the elements. We also offer rapid, affordable, transitional housing that is culturally appropriate, meets international standards and can be expanded or upgraded to permanent shelter. 

In every situation, we design our response in close collaboration with the community and in consideration of traditional architecture, cultural acceptability and locally available materials.

Our approach to shelter has positioned us as a leader in the recovery process, especially our use of community action planning and shelter demonstrations to tackle challenging issues of land ownership and “no build” zones.

Explore the regions where CRS is transforming lives through your generosity. From Africa to Latin America, discover stories of hope and resilience across the globe.

With a team of Communications staff around the world, we can provide real-time updates during emergencies and on a wide variety of current issues and events facing the developing world and the international community.