Belize Red Cross activities to celebrate World Red Cross Red Crescent Day

Belize Red Cross (BRC) celebrated World Red Cross Red Crescent Day (May 8) with a series of events.

On Monday May 8, volunteers gathered at Battle Field Park for an Open Day to highlight their work, including the Caribbean First Aid Project and the innovative “Together We Can” HIV/AIDS Peer Education Project.

Students and members of the community who visited the Open Day also had an opportunity to get a free blood pressure and glucose test and view the apparatus used in First Aid.

A pictorial exhibition showcased a portion of the history of BRC’s work through eyes of photographers. Snapshots showed Red Cross volunteers at work during times of need and disaster in Belize.

On Wednesday May 10, the Red Cross held its weekly soup kitchen day at its Gabourel Lane headquarters. Every week about 75 city residents are treated to a healthy and nutritional meal.

On Thursday May 11, volunteers served lunch to residents of the Salvation Army Gann’s Rest House, while on Friday May 12 they participate in a Health Fair at Double Cabbage.

On Saturday May 13, Belizeans were asked to support the BRC by attending a benefit dinner at the Chateau Caribbean. Raffles, Silent and Chinese auctions were held to raise funds.

During the week of activities, the public learnt more about the BRC’s plans for the future. Among their plans is one to increase the number of volunteers by 50% over the next five years, said President Ms. Karen Diaz.

Currently, there are 1,100 active BRC volunteers. An increase of volunteers will help to boost the work of the BRC, as most of the work is community-based.

The BRC also intends to review its disaster response system, introduce wellness clinics, continue its work to standardize First Aid across the country, and set up a thrift store to aid disaster victims.