Airbnb.org redefines the concept of ‘home’ in the aftermath of disasters

The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters have created a pressing need for innovative solutions that address the crisis of displacement. Within this context, Airbnb.org plays a crucial role in redefining what ‘home’ means to those affected by such catastrophic events. This nonprofit initiative, born from the Airbnb platform, mobilizes hosts to provide temporary housing to individuals and families grappling with the aftermath of disasters. Its mission extends beyond offering mere shelter; it strives to deliver stability, dignity, and comfort during some of the most challenging times in a person’s life.

Understanding Airbnb.org: The Evolution of a Humanitarian Response

Founded in the wake of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, Airbnb.org was born out of a singular act of compassion by a host named Shell. She opened her Brooklyn home to those affected by the storm, igniting a movement that would eventually see thousands of hosts follow suit. This grassroots approach to hospitality reshaped the narrative around disaster responses, resembling efforts more commonly associated with humanitarian organizations.

The scope of Airbnb.org’s initiative far exceeds traditional emergency housing solutions. While conventional shelters often lack personal touches and may foster feelings of dislocation, Airbnb stays provide a space that feels more like home. Occupants benefit from amenities such as kitchens and laundry facilities, which allow them to maintain normalcy amidst chaos. This aspect is critical, explained Christoph Gorder, executive director of Airbnb.org, who notes that having the ability to “cook a meal, bathe kids, and bring your pets” makes a world of difference during times of crisis.

The Home Lives On Campaign: A Spotlight on Resilience

In 2025, Airbnb.org launched its ambitious “Home Lives On” campaign, aimed at showcasing heartfelt stories of families affected by disasters. Created with the help of production teams who personally experienced these crises, the campaign draws inspiration from real-life narratives to emphasize the deeply personal implications of displacement.

• Juliet, Mark, and their daughter, Delaney, evacuated during the devastating Palisades wildfire, finding temporary refuge through Airbnb.org.
• Stefanie and Pablo fled severe floods in Valencia, Spain, with their infant daughter and utilized the service effectively to secure safe accommodation.
• Eshele and her son Brayden managed to sustain their routines, including attending important events like birthdays and dance classes, despite being displaced.

Each family’s story illustrates the broader understanding of home, emphasizing safety, comfort, and community. The success of the campaign helped raise awareness about their ongoing efforts, reaching out to a global audience about the pressing need for emergency housing solutions during crises.

Family	Disaster	Location	Experience Highlight
Juliet and Mark	Palisades Wildfire	California, USA	Reuniting with their pet, Louis
Stefanie and Pablo	Flash Floods	Valencia, Spain	Securing a safe place for their infant daughter
Eshele	Eaton Canyon Fire	California, USA	Maintaining routines amidst displacement

The Importance of Speed, Location, and Comfort in Disaster Relief

The essence of Airbnb.org’s approach lies in its commitment to swift response times and geographical accessibility. During recent crises, such as the January wildfires in Los Angeles, the nonprofit facilitated emergency housing for over 23,000 individuals, the largest number in its history. Families found lodging within days of losing their homes, with nearly half of the bookings made within 24 hours following the disaster, showcasing the critical needs of displaced individuals.

Among the factors that contribute to the effectiveness of Airbnb.org’s assistance are:

• Accessibility: The organization partners with local nonprofits to distribute housing credits, enabling quick bookings for those in need.
• Flexibility: Guests can choose homes that align with their specific requirements, such as pet-friendly accommodations or properties equipped with accessibility features.
• Personal Touch: Many hosts offer additional amenities, crafting an environment that goes beyond mere safety to foster emotional well-being.

These elements play a pivotal role in reassuring families in distress. As Gorder mentions, “Guests often share that, beyond just a place to stay, Airbnb.org is providing them time to rest and space to think about what’s next.”

Engaging with Hosts: An Integral Part of the Solution

The willingness of Airbnb hosts to open their homes during crises significantly impacts the experience of displaced families. Many hosts not only provide free lodging but also extend their hospitality by offering additional resources, such as food and other necessities for families that arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs.

• Gestures of Kindness: Some hosts leave essentials like toiletries and snacks in their homes to make guests feel more comfortable.
• Community Support: Offers for babysitting and companionship often arise from local hosts, fostering a sense of community during trying times.
• Feedback Loop: Continued dialogue between hosts and Airbnb.org facilitates improvements to the program, ensuring the needs of guests are properly addressed.

This cooperative spirit illustrates a broader societal commitment to aiding those in distress, positioning Airbnb.org as a critical player in the evolving landscape of disaster response.

Factor	Effect on Guests
Accessibility	Quick placements in safe neighborhoods
Flexibility	Ability to choose accommodations that cater to specific needs
Personal Touch	Feeling welcomed and cared for in difficult situations

The Global Reach of Airbnb.org: Addressing Disasters Worldwide

Airbnb.org’s outreach has extended beyond U.S. borders, with interventions in multiple countries over the past year. The nonprofit responded to 38 various disaster scenarios, emphasizing that no disaster is too small or significant for them to engage.

Countries such as Spain, Mexico, and Greece have witnessed support from Airbnb.org, showcasing an adaptable model that adheres to local needs. Listeners worldwide benefit from the ability to immediately access temporary housing, allowing them to regain control over their lives in the wake of devastation.

The global nature of these interventions raises essential questions about communal responsibility and shared humanity. In pursuing effective disaster responses, it underscores the interconnectedness of our world, where seemingly local crises can carry global repercussions.

• Collaborations with NGOs: Airbnb.org works alongside established nonprofits to enhance its reach and effectiveness.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations allows for more tailored aid that resonates with the cultural context.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding local needs and priorities is vital in formulating effective relief strategies.

Country	Disaster Type	Impact
USA	Wildfires	23,000 people housed
Spain	Floods	Families safely relocated
Greece	Earthquakes	Temporary housing provided for displaced residents

The Future of Airbnb.org: Innovations in Disaster Preparedness

Airbnb.org acknowledges that the landscape of disasters continues to evolve. In 2025, the organization has set its sights on enhancing disaster preparedness across nine countries. This proactive approach emphasizes that effectively addressing crises requires planning and foresight, rather than merely reactive measures.

Likewise, expanding its partner network aims to strengthen community ties and facilitate a more effective response to future crises. The commitment to integrating technology into disaster preparedness strategies promises a path forward that is responsive to the ever-changing landscape of global crises. Airbnb.org’s innovative mindset ensures it remains at the forefront of humanitarian responses in the ever-challenging world of disaster relief.

• Enhanced Digital Tools: Developing apps that streamline booking processes during crises will enable quicker access to housing.
• Increased Community Engagement: Workshops focused on disaster preparedness and response will help train hosts and local communities.
• Ongoing Research: Continuous assessment of community needs will guide future strategies and resource allocation.

In summary, the blend of technology, compassion, and community-focused strategies positions Airbnb.org as a pioneer of a new approach to disaster relief and recovery, redefining the meaning of home for many.

Initiative	Description	Expected Outcome
Digital Tool Development	Create apps for streamlined crisis booking	Quicker housing access during emergencies
Community Engagement Workshops	Train hosts and locals in disaster preparedness	Increased resilience in communities
Needs Assessment Research	Regular evaluations of community priorities	Guided resource allocation and strategy refinement