 | Commodity Distribution, A Practical Guide for Field Staff (United Nations High Commission for Refugee, 1997, 77 p.) |
 |  | I. Overview |
|
|
1.3 Food and non-food items
Integration of Food and Non-food distribution systems
Where possible, there should be an integrated distribution system for Food and Non-Food Items (NFI).
The systems described in these guidelines apply equally to NFI as well as food commodities; special arrangements may be needed for some NFI commodities under some circumstances, but these should be designed into a common system rather than require a parallel system.
The layout of the physical distribution system and the documents used for control and reporting should be similar for food and NFI distribution.
Non-Food Items
Non-food items can be classified into two main groups:
|
1. Routine consumables |
e.g. soap, firewood, fuel, sanitary supplies, health supplies, condoms, education supplies. |
|
2. Non-consumables, longer life items |
e.g. mattresses, blankets, plastic sheeting, tents, building materials, kitchen sets, jerrycans, sleeping mats, farming tools. |
There are three types of NFI distribution:
|
1. Initial |
new arrivals, first time distribution. |
|
2. Routine replacement |
consumables and non-consumables, following routine wear and tear. |
|
3. Special circumstances |
following disasters, (storm, fire etc), to vulnerable groups, upon repatriation or departure. |
Frequency of NFI replacement
The frequency of NFI distribution will depend on each situation. As it is likely to be irregular, specific advance information to the beneficiaries is essential. There are no universal standards for the replacement of NFI and each situation must be judged on its own merits.
|
|