In 2000 Habitat Digital was nationally recognized for excellence when the Colombian National Emergency Living Award was given to Habitat Digital for a proposal for immediate reconstruction and emergency housing needed after any catastrophic disaster, that could be adjusted in its design and used in other temporary/permanent applications.

The proposed solution is founded in the fact that the destruction of communities caused by natural disasters represents an important challenge for the design and construction of immediate relief housing for those affected by disaster. In order for a system to successfully provide shelter with minimal effort and maximum efficiency it must meet the requirements of immediacy, safety and flexibility in an economic and dignified manner. The Habitat-digital Emergency Living Plan - HELP, is an immediate solution which offers a new flexible, lightweight, easy to install structure in temporary, clean, comfortable and safe family units. The following description  will show how HELP meets the requirements listed above, as well as some technical specifications needed for installation.

Immediacy

The Habitat-digital Emergency Living Plan is able to provide an immediate response because of the unique characteristics of materials and its design. The building material provided by Royal Building Systems is light weight and sturdy, facilitating the transportation process. The construction process is simple, mandating minimal man power and the ability to complete a unit in a matter of hours, due to the patent pending Modular system which provides a sturdy, safe structural solution effective even when a slab is unavailable. Minimal preparation is needed for the desired terrain, which further expedites response time.

Flexibility

As stated above, this system is effective with little preparation of the terrain. Furthermore, the HELP system can be adjusted to any type of landscaping. The size of each unit can be increased or decreased according to the individual family specifications. A larger unit can be built for community purposes, such as health units, community centers, lavatory facilities, common eating area, etc. HELP is also 100% re-usable with no maintenance, therefore, these units can be packed up or stored, and taken to the next disaster area. However, if the need arises for permanent housing, the HELP system can be modified to be suitable for a comfortable and attractive home.

Economical

The immediacy, and flexibility of HELP contributes to the economic efficiency of this plan. Materials used are made up of PVC and metal, and the tools needed for construction are basic and uncomplicated, such as a ladder, saw, screwdriver, and a hammer. The basic materials are termite proof, and resistant to fire and humidity. The durability of the materials used, further increases the economic efficiency of HELP.

Safety and dignity

HELP provides more than immediate emergency housing, it provides an environment that builds community, with the ability for the individual families to still maintain their privacy and personal space. HELP provides conditions which will reduce the amount of stress for individuals and families by providing a feeling of safety and normality in a traumatic situation.

The Habitat-digital Emergency Plan comes in a kit which includes, lightweight PVC panels, lightweight metal/wood frames, tools and hardware, necessary for construction.