Designers
Designers
Designers
Lightbox - Disaster aid kit
A portable recovery kit supporting survivors beyond emergency response.
Key Words
Designers
Sena Demir
SUMMARY
Lightbox is a portable disaster-recovery kit designed to support survivors during the confusing and emotionally overwhelming period after a crisis. I began by studying delays in FEMA and HUD systems, survivor testimonies, and trauma-informed care research. Through empathy mapping, journey analysis, and user testing, I discovered gaps in emotional support, navigation clarity, and access to resources. Lightbox matters because it meets survivors where they are—providing stability, guidance, and dignity when systems fall short.
challenge
Research revealed that survivors face long delays for housing aid, confusing paperwork, misinformation, and emotional exhaustion. Many reported anxiety, shame, and a lack of clarity about next steps. Hygiene needs were unmet in shelters, and mental-health support was difficult to access. Additionally, recovery information was scattered across multiple systems, making it hard to track progress. These gaps showed a need for a portable solution that provides emotional support, clear instructions, and essential daily items.
Outcome
Lightbox evolved into a three-part kit: hygiene essentials, emotional-support tools, and a step-by-step recovery guide with QR codes linking to FEMA, HUD, and local aid. It also includes access to on-call professionals and a monthly community events calendar. User testing showed that survivors valued clarity, comfort items, and easy navigation most. Lightbox addresses real recovery gaps by restoring dignity, reducing anxiety, and making complex systems more accessible in the moments survivors need it most.
MEET THE Designers:
Sena Demir