Our mission
Providing portable dignity shelters to protect and empower individuals experiencing homelessness across America.
How we started
Portara is a student-founded 501(c)(3) built around one simple observation: in New York City, many people sleeping outside refuse congregate shelters because of safety, rules, crowding, or separation from partners/pets—but blankets and sleeping bags still leave people exposed to rain, wind, and freezing concrete.
We believed that everyone deserves privacy, protection, and a sense of personal space- regardless of their housing situation. That belief drove us to create the Portara shelter: a portable, durable, and dignified solution.
Our approach
We work directly with homeless shelters, outreach organizations, and city programs to ensure Portara shelters reach those who need them most. Our distribution partners have established relationships with unhoused communities and understand local needs.
Every Portara shelter is manufactured with high-quality, weather-resistant materials designed to last 2-3 years with proper care. We provide setup instructions and care guides to all recipients through our partner organizations.
While we know a tent is not a permanent solution to homelessness, we believe it can provide crucial stability and dignity during a difficult time. Our ultimate goal is to support individuals on their path to permanent housing.
Our journey
Founded
Formed the Portara team to design a dignified, portable shelter.
501(c)(3) Status
Received official 501(c)(3) determination so we can fund and scale impact.
Pilot & Distribution
Tested and delivered our first set of shelters with a partner agency.
Building Momentum
Designing a new compact tent and expanding partnerships for wider reach.
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