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The MATRA Second Life Project is ready to turn used tent vinyl into something life-changing.
Our members have the vinyl. Our partners at Every Shelter have the process. Now we need help funding the journey.
A single shipping container costs $10,000 to send, but it can carry enough repurposed tent vinyl to help create 400 durable, weatherproof homes for displaced families.
That means a gift of just $25 helps provide shelter material for one family.
This is about keeping vinyl out of landfills and giving families facing long-term displacement a safer place to rebuild.
Donate today and help give this vinyl, and these families, a second life.
https://everyshelter.donorsupport.co/page/FUNZXUVHJAN?fundraiser=NSHRBEDG&member=SQLBXANT
04/27/2026
Introducing the MATRA Second Life Project
Repurpose. Recover. Rebuild.
What happens to tent vinyl after its job is done?
Through the MATRA Second Life Project, retired tent vinyl is getting a second life, not in a landfill, but as shelter for families in need.
Our first container is officially full and on its way.
That means:
• 150,000 sq ft of vinyl repurposed
• 400 shelters created
• $25 helps shelter a family of 5
• Just $5 helps provide shelter for one person
This initiative is about more than recycling. It’s about taking materials from our industry and turning them into something life-changing.
A huge thank you to Christian Party Rental for donating the vinyl for our first container, and to George and Karen Smith for helping fund the shipment and bring this vision to life.
We’re proud to support the work of Every Shelter and help create safe shelter for displaced families around the world.
Want to see the impact this work can have? Watch here:
🎥 youtube.com/watch?v=tcWYmA2zvKI&authuser=0
This is just the beginning.
More containers. More impact. More second chances.
Help support the next container:
👉 https://everyshelter.donorsupport.co/page/FUNZXUVHJAN?fundraiser=NSHRBEDG&member=SQLBXANT
04/21/2026
Save the Date
SAFE TENTING PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION PROGRAM WORKSHOP
July 22 and 23
Harrah’s Atlantic City, NJ
Opportunity to complete all three certification courses in just two days.
Take the free online prerequisite course anytime before attending.
Registration coming soon.
Three certification courses:
• Essentials of Tent Anchoring
• Essentials of Pole Tent Installations
• Essentials of Frame Tent Installations
04/10/2026
This is what MATRA is all about.
People showing up, sharing knowledge, asking questions, and getting better together.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Spring Training—East and West.
📸 Photos from both events: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCQvzZ
A is born at Spring Training.
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
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Contact the organization
Telephone
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Address
400 E Randolph Street
Chicago, IL
60601
Opening Hours
| Monday | 9am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Friday | 9am - 5pm |
