Community and Society
Plan for Schools: Hurricane Lisa Response Efforts
In collaboration with both the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) and the general managers of those schools severely affected, it has been determined that classes will resume, as previously indicated, on Monday, November 7 for all schools, including those in the Belize District that are able to return safely. For other Belize District schools that have been impacted, the week of November 7 to 12 will serve as a transition week in preparation for a full return by November 14 except, of course, in extreme cases.
Community and Society
Hurricane Lisa Recovery Efforts Underway
An emergency allocation of funds is being made available by the Government of Belize for initial humanitarian assistance through the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) for food and emergency supplies for the most affected families. The medium-term funds for humanitarian assistance, which includes emergency accommodation rental for displaced families, will be allocated to the Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. A self-help small-housing relief and grocery bags assistance will be rolling out soon.
Community and Society
BEL Continues Restoration Following Hurricane Lisa
Power restoration began as soon as the “All Clear” was given on Thursday, November 3, 2022. As of 9:00 a.m. on Friday, November 4, 2022, BEL restored power to 95% of affected customers in Cayo, approximately 70% of customers in Belize City, and the Philip Goldson International Airport in Ladyville. By Friday, November 4, 2022, BEL is aiming to restore 100% of customers in the Cayo District, up to 95% of customers in Belize City, and 80% of customers in Ladyville and rural areas of Belize District.
Community and Society
San Pedro organizations coordinate fundraisers to help hurricane victims in Belize City
Following the passage of Hurricane Lisa over Belize, non-profit organizations in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, have started to organize fundraisers to help those affected by the storm on the mainland. Caye Caulker and San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, were spared minimal damages. However, several residents’ homes in Belize City were heavily damaged, and some need significant repairs. Many persons remain in shelters, some of these shelters are schools, and because classes are to resume on Monday, November 7th, the sheltered individuals may need to relocate.
Community and Society
Hurricane Lisa spares the Cayes, batters Belize City
The passage of Hurricane Lisa over Belize had minimal impacts on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. While islanders prepared for the worst, most beachfront properties, including piers, were not observed with damages. One of the main effects of the hurricane on the island was the amount of debris left on the beach and detectable levels of erosion in certain areas.
Community and Society
Holy Cross Primary School teachers walked out of classes
On Monday, October 31st, over a dozen Holy Cross Anglican Primary School teachers in the San Mateo Subdivision walked out of their classes because the school’s management owes them salaries and hardship allowances.
Community and Society
Saga’s Spooktacular Halloween Pet costume party scares up much-needed funds
The San Pedro Saga Humane Society held its first post-pandemic Halloween Pet Costume contest on Sunday, October 30th, at Toast Seaside Boozery and Grill. The annual fundraiser was a great success, with one of the best turnouts. Over 40 pets (primarily dogs and one cat) competed in Scariest, Funniest, Look-a-Like, and Glamorous categories.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town Council starts project to keep downtown streets clean
Councilors at the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) have started a project designed to keep the streets of downtown clean. The initiative will target Barrier Reef Drive, Pescador Drive, and Angel Coral Street. The plan is to thoroughly clean one of these main streets every Sunday to keep the commercial area of the island clean and attractive for residents and visitors.