ROKiT Homes Offers Hope and Shelter for Wildfire Victims

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief

In a world increasingly beset by natural disasters and housing crises, Jonathan Kendrick, co-founder of ROKiT Homes, is championing a solution that combines innovation, sustainability, and compassion. Kendrick, along with his business partner John Paul DeJoria, is on a mission to redefine housing with affordable, durable, and versatile homes designed to meet the needs of those in crisis, including the thousands affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles.

“The devastation caused by the wildfires is staggering,” Kendrick says. “Entire communities have been wiped out, leaving families with nothing but uncertainty. ROKiT Homes can provide immediate relief—giving people a place to live while they rebuild their lives.”

A Revolutionary Housing Solution

ROKiT Homes are prefabricated, flat-packed structures that can be assembled in as little as 90 minutes. Built with galvanized steel and designed to last over 30 years, these homes are equipped with modern amenities, including electricity, air conditioning, and fully functional bathrooms. “These aren’t just shelters,” Kendrick emphasizes. “They’re homes—safe, secure, and comfortable spaces where people can begin to heal.”

The idea for ROKiT Homes took root in Kendrick’s research into post-World War II housing in England. During that time, prefabricated homes were built rapidly to accommodate those displaced by bombings. “These homes were meant to last ten years, but many are still standing today, some even recognized as historical landmarks,” Kendrick explains. Inspired by this resilience, he envisioned a modern equivalent that could address today’s housing challenges, from homelessness to disaster recovery.

Helping Wildfire Victims

The need for ROKiT Homes is especially urgent in wildfire-prone areas like California. Kendrick sees these homes as a critical solution for those whose houses have been destroyed. “Imagine being able to place a ROKiT Home on a family’s property while they rebuild. Their children can go to school, and they can start getting back to normal life,” he says.

However, Kendrick has encountered significant obstacles in implementing his vision. “The red tape is overwhelming,” he laments. “Zoning regulations and bureaucratic delays make it almost impossible to act quickly, even in emergencies.”

To overcome these challenges, Kendrick is pursuing innovative strategies, including plans to build an ROKiT Village on unzoned federal land. “I want to show people what’s possible,” he says. “We could have a functioning community in place within 90 days.”

Compassionate Capitalism

Kendrick and DeJoria’s approach to business is rooted in what they call “compassionate capitalism”—the idea that companies can be profitable while prioritizing social impact. This philosophy is evident in ROKiT Homes’ affordability. Basic units can be rented for as little as $5 per week, while larger, fully equipped homes are available for $200 per month.

But Kendrick’s commitment doesn’t stop at providing shelter. He offers a pathway to homeownership for renters, turning his vision of compassionate capitalism into a reality. “After five years, we transfer the deeds to the residents,” he explains. “This transforms them from being homeless to homeowners, giving them a sense of stability and pride.”

Beyond the U.S.

While Kendrick is focused on addressing the housing crisis in the United States, ROKiT Homes are also making an impact internationally. From housing initiatives in El Salvador to collaborations with Native American tribes, the homes are being used to address a wide range of housing needs. “The beauty of these homes is their adaptability,” Kendrick says. “They’re equally suited for urban neighborhoods, rural communities, or disaster zones.”

A Call to Action

Despite the challenges, Kendrick remains determined to make ROKiT Homes a cornerstone of housing solutions worldwide. “The need is too great to ignore,” he says. “We have the technology and the capability. Now we just need the will to act.”