Belize Red Cross

✚
Hurricane Keith Response
October 2000 - May 2001
 Fundamental Principles of the
International Red Cross and Red
Crescent Movement

HUMANITY
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born
of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the
battlefield, endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent
and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found.
Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the
human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and
lasting peace amongst all peoples.

IMPARTIALITY
It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs,
class or political opinions. It endeavours to relieve the suffering of
individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to
the most urgent cases of distress.

NEUTRALITY
In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement
may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies
of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

INDEPENDENCE
The Movement is independent, The National Societies, while
auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to
the laws of their respective countries must always maintain their
autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance
with the principles of the Movement.

VOLUNTARY SERVICE
It is a voluntary movement not prompted in any manner
by desire for gain.

UNITY
There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any
one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work
throughout its territory.

UNIVERSALITY
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which
all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibility and
duties in helping each other, is worldwide.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1. Message from the President 2

2. Map of Hurricane Keith 3

3. Effects of Hurricane Keith 4

4. Emergency Phase 5

5. Relief Phase 6

6. Development Phase 8

7. Response to Local Appeal 11

8. Response to International Appeal 14

9. Strategy 2010 16

10. Belize Red Cross Society 17

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 1

 MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
April 25th, 2001

Dear Friend,

Hurricane Keith inflicted over US$250 million worth of damage to Belize last
October/November. This hurricane also caused untold suffering to many
Belizeans and persons resident in Belize. Seven months later, Belize has
recovered substantially from the damage and suffering that we all experi-
enced.

The Belize Red Cross played a significant role in the relief and recovery
effort. Our role was to alleviate suffering by helping the most vulnerable persons in Belize. Thou-
sands of beneficiaries were assisted by the Belize Red Cross on the basis of their need and guided
by the seven Fundamental Principles of our Movement.

This Report tells the story of the Belize Red Cross Hurricane Keith Operation. It captures the essen-
tials, and provides donors and the public with a report of what assistance we received and a clear
explanation how it was used. We present this report in partial discharge of our obligation to account
and to work in a transparent fashion. Audited accounts are being prepared and will be available
within the coming weeks.

This Operation was the largest ever mounted by our small Society. It was only possible through the
unselfish and backbreaking work of many volunteers. They seek neither praise nor reward; their
vocation is service. But we pay tribute to each and every person who helped in any way to make this
Operation the success it has been.

By law we work as an auxiliary to the public authorities. We worked closely with NEMO and its
committees, the Belize Police Force, the Customs Department, the Belize Defence Force, the Minis-
tries of Health, Human Resources and Housing and the local government authorities in Orange Walk
and Belize City. We wish to thank them for their unwavering support of our efforts.

The International Federation responded admirably in our time of need, and their continued support of
the operation was excellent. Several National Societies and international organisations responded to
our Appeal and thereby enabled us to meet the pressing needs of many. The business community
and the public, both at home and from abroad, provided historic support to the Belize Red Cross. We
record our sincere gratitude to all those who responded, those who gave money, those who donated
goods and those who served.

Immediately after Hurricane Keith had hit Belize, the Belize Red Cross stated that we would respond
to the needs of the most vulnerable by providing relief. We also committed ourselves to rehabilitation
work; to be there long after others had pulled up their stakes. Now, some seven months later as we
pull up our stakes we believe that we have kept our word.

The Belize Red Cross volunteers take this opportunity to recommit ourselves to voluntary service, to
the humanitarian cause of alleviating suffering and of promoting and protecting life and health and
ensuring respect for human beings. We pledge to continue ‘to light the darkness’ in the lives of many
who by their circumstance seek assistance. With your continued support we will be able to help the
most vulnerable.

Eamon H. Courtenay

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 2

 MAP OF HURRICANE KEITH

The Western Eyewall of Hurricane Keith over Ambergris Caye, Belize

Courtesy of Belize Meteorological Services

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 3

 EFFECTS OF HURRICANE KEITH

Hurricane Keith underwent extremely rapid development over northern coastal waters of Belize
during September 30 through the early hours of October 1, 2000, strengthening from a Category I
hurricane to a Category IV hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 135 mph. Keith’s eye
wobbled erratically around the Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker area during October 1 and 2.
These communities experienced hurricane force winds for almost 24 hours. Keith’s almost stationary
nature during its evolution to a Category IV hurricane, and its demise to a tropical storm resulted in
unprecedented amounts of rainfall over the Corozal, Orange Walk, Cayo, and Belize districts. The
resulting floods inundated vast areas of farmlands and communities.

Keith’s western eye wall began battering Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker from about 9:00 a.m.
on Sunday, October 1 until approximately 6:00 a.m. on Monday October 2, as the 20-mile diameter
eye remained practically stationary. Torrential rains with tropical storm force winds swept across
northern and central areas of the mainland. The rains were persistent for up to 48 hours and even
longer over some areas. The highest rainfall concentration for the period September 29 through
October 3 was in the Ladyville area of the Belize district, where a total of 830 mm was recorded.
Rainfall was almost an inch per hour during the period of highest intensity on October 1 and 2.
This was one of the most extreme rainfalls experienced in Belize in recent history.

The devastating winds of Hurricane Keith ravaged the northern cayes of Belize, in particular
Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Evidence of this was seen from the widespread damage to
buildings and infrastructure on both cayes. The vegetation on the cayes was all but denuded.

Douglas and other villages in the north along the swollen Rio Hondo
suffered extensive flooding. Many villages were cut off from the
Northern Highway and were only accessible by boat. Livestock
was forced onto higher terrain, but many were lost because of the
rapid rise in water levels. An estimated 20,000 acres of farmland
were flooded as of noon on October 5. In the Blue Creek area
alone, 1,330 acres of rice and 700 acres of corn were submerged.

Communities along the lower Belize River were also flooded, in particular Crooked Tree village,
where the flood waters completely covered the earthen causeway to the village and extended
about a quarter of the way along the road leading to the Northern Highway. Extensive areas of
farmland and pastures were also under water in this area of the Belize District. The lower Sibun
River spilled over its banks forcing the water as far as the Western Highway - in some areas up to
11 miles from the river’s normal course. The villages of Freetown Sibun and Grace Bank were
completely submerged.

Hurricane Keith affected four districts, (Corozal, Orange Walk,

Cayo, and Belize) with a total population of over 125,000; of
those, more than 57,000 persons were affected. This represents
46% of the population of these districts and 23 % of the nation’s
population. More than 5,000 persons were evacuated and 3,279
made homeless. Due to the heavy rains and flooding 13,000
persons were isolated and ten people lost their lives. In total,
damage and losses in agriculture, the environment, fishing,
infrastructure, livestock, tourism and boats were estimated at
US $225 million.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 4

 EMERGENCY PHASE
Government Action

At 10:00 a.m. on September 30, NEMO (National Emergency Management Organization) was
activated. With official hurricane warnings announced, all subcommittees of NEMO assumed their
roles and responsibilities. By October 2, the Prime Minister declared a State of Emergency.

NEMO coordinated the National Relief Operations that consisted of: Damage and Needs
Assessment, Relief Distribution, Shelters, Search & Rescue, and Communication.

The Belize Defense Force (BDF) supplied logistical support to the Emergency Operation Center
(EOC) on the two devastated cayes (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker) with the help of the
British Army and other organizations.

Red Cross Action

On Thursday September 28, the BRC Disaster Management

Committee convened an emergency meeting to review
responsibilities, examine available relief supplies and coordinate
their family plans for the emerging storm. On September 29, the
BRC activated its hurricane plan and all branches were informed
and their state of readiness was assessed.

BRC volunteers worked alongside local groups to provide management support for the Emergency
Shelters. Additionally, the BRC provided food and other emergency relief supplies to these shelters,
particularly those near Belmopan, Cayo and Orange Walk, as well as to the populations of Ambergris
Caye and Caye Caulker.

Throughout the storm, Belize Red Cross volunteers were active in the shelters providing first aid
and assistance for medical and other emergency needs. Immediately after the hurricane, the
National Headquarters dispatched supplementary food and supplies to Ambergris Caye, Caye
Caulker, Corozal and Orange Walk.

In collaboration with NEMO, the BRC was active in Damage Assessment as well as providing
continued medical support to the emergency shelters in Belmopan, Orange Walk and Belize City.
The BRC also distributed its emergency stocks of food, blankets and mattresses and provided
volunteers to assist in the shelters.

Members of the Disaster Management Committee worked around the clock to provide immediate
relief to vulnerable individuals and to prepare a preliminary assessment and plan of action. At the
National Co-ordination Meeting Belize Red Cross undertook to focus its relief and rehabilitation
efforts in the Belize District (Belize River Valley Villages and Crooked Tree) and Orange Walk
District (Douglas, Santa Cruz and Santa Marta Villages).

A Regional Intervention Team (RIT) from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent
Societies arrived in Belize on October 2, following a request for assistance from the BRC and
began providing support and working together with BRC on Damage Assessment and Needs
Analysis. An American Red Cross team of four arrived on October 4 and joined with the Federation
team. German Red Cross delegates based in Honduras responded immediately by visiting the
National Society and offering support. The Mexican Red Cross provided vital support to the RIT
delegates who were on standby in Mexico prior to arriving in Belize.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 5

 RELIEF PHASE
The main goal of the Hurricane Keith Relief Operation was to maintain the nutritional and health
status of the most seriously affected populations in the target areas of Belize by:

1) ensuring the beneficiaries basic relief items and food

rations;
2) contributing to the maintenance of the health of the tar-
get population;
3) increasing the operational capacity of the BRC in the
areas of Disaster Preparedness, Response, and Mitiga-
tion.

Relief Distribution

The day after the hurricane struck, the BRC began distributing blankets, kitchen sets, hygiene kits,
and tarpaulins from their disaster preparedness stocks supplied earlier by the IFRC Regional
Disaster Preparedness Programme funded by the Japanese Red Cross.

The National Society purchased and distributed 7,744 food &

hygiene parcels to 38,720 beneficiaries in Belize District, Orange
Walk District, and Belmopan between early October and mid
November. The parcels consisted of flour, sugar, beans, rice,
corned beef, vegetable oil, baking powder, toilet paper, toothpaste
and soap.

Additionally, the BRC distributed 1,656 mixed relief parcels to

8,280 vulnerable individuals in Belize City during October through
March. Relief items for these parcels were donated by the local community and included food,
clothing, blankets and hygiene supplies. An American Red Cross (ARC) shipment of 2,700 food
parcels and 4,086 hygiene kits was received and distributed between mid November and mid
December. After the distribution of ARC supplies, another 1,650 food parcels were distributed in
the Orange Walk and Belize Districts from mid December to mid January. In total, the BRC
distributed 13,750 food parcels reaching an estimated 68,750 needy beneficiaries. The distribu-
tion was facilitated with help from the Belize Audubon Society and Programme for Belize.

Supplementary nutrition was provided by the BRC to children who were indirectly affected by the
hurricane through a donation of 5,000 lbs of powdered milk distributed to 50 primary schools
during the first school term of 2001.

The BRC also received 2 containers from the Honduras Red Cross filled with flour, rice, kitchen
sets, blankets, and clothing. The German Red Cross dispatched 1,600 kitchen sets and water
buckets. The Honduran and German donations were distributed as part of the Operation.

Concerned Belizeans living in the USA sent cash and relief supplies to the BRC to assist their
families and friends back home.

And finally, the BRC responded to an urgent request by local subsistence farmers in Belmopan
and the surrounding area by providing 52 families (360 individuals) in 9 communities with seeds
and fertilizers so they would not lose a second crop due to Hurricane Keith.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 6

 RELIEF PHASE
Well Cleaning

Severe flooding caused by Hurricane Keith contaminated many wells in rural Belize. The BRC
took on the task of cleaning viable hand dug
wells, that would be used by the general
public in future emergencies. For this
purpose, OXFAM provided three submersible
pumps, and various supplies and funding, in
addition to providing a Public Health Engineer
for one month. BRC established two well
cleaning teams to conduct the fieldwork. In
total, 64 wells were cleaned in 21 villages –
a process that involved pumping out the
wells, removing any debris, and disinfecting
the wells as the water returned to its natural
level. This program was very popular with
villagers as it not only provided them with
safe drinking water, but it was found that they
were eager to learn more about well maintenance, water safety and sanitation.

Vector Control

After the severe flooding associated with

Hurricane Keith officials were concerned
about the possible spread of vector-borne
diseases such as malaria and haemorrhagic
dengue fever. Health officials wanted to
increase both frequency and coverage of their
normal fogging programme in order to
prevent such a possibility. BRC assisted by
purchasing essential and costly vector control
chemicals (1,500 kg of Malathion; 250 kg of
K-Othrine; and 160 kg of Abate) that were
used in the government organized spraying
programme. As a result, no significant
increase in vector-borne diseases was
reported.

In addition, BRC engaged in a special clean-up campaign in the western region of Belize, around
Benque Viejo del Carmen, Succotz, and San Ignacio as this region borders Guatemala. Activities
included indoor and outdoor spraying, clean up of mosquito breeding areas, and a community
education campaign. All vector programmes were planned in coordination with the Ministry of
Health and PAHO.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 7

 DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Water Tank Construction

During the flooding, many villagers suffered from an

acute shortage of safe drinking water. BRC responded
by establishing an Emergency Water Supply System
for future floods (and droughts). This rainwater
collection programme is designed to enable residents
in rural communities to collect rainwater drained from
roofs into 660-gallon storage tanks. This water will be
available to the communities as an alternative source
of drinking water during emergencies. Under the
programme, a total of 60 villages were selected, and
each received two tanks.

Each Emergency Water System was built on a

reinforced concrete base, hurricane straps for the tanks
bolted into the base, and a guttering system to drain
the rainwater from the roofs into the tanks.

Latrine Rehabilitation

Many latrines suffered considerable damage

as a result of the hurricane. After an extensive
survey, BRC undertook the repair of 150 of
the most seriously damaged latrines in the
villages of Douglas, Lemonal, and Santa Cruz.
All materials and supervision were supplied
by BRC, while the reconstruction of the latrines
was carried out by village volunteers to
encourage community involvement.

Composting Latrine Pilot Project

The composting latrine project is a pilot project endorsed by the Ministry of Health. In a country
prone to flooding, where the majority of the population lives in
rural communities and rely on outdoor latrines, it is essential to
public health that sanitary waste disposal is established. Today,
even the “ventilated, improved, pit latrines” used in many parts,
are still subject to flooding, and the subsequent contamination
of drinking water. The composting latrines are regarded as flood-
proof. Twenty above-ground composting latrines were
constructed in two different flood prone communities (Douglas
and Lemonal) in order to test their effectiveness, and monitor
the compliance and cultural acceptance of this method. The
families were carefully selected for this project and will be trained in how to use the new technology.
There will be a one-year follow up to monitor the results, and determine if such a programme could
be expanded in the future.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 8

 DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Training

Training has been an important component of the Hurricane Keith Operation. The following work-
shops have been held or are planned to be completed by the start of the hurricane season 2001
(June):

1. Environmental Sanitation & Hy-

giene Workshops for all 6 dis-
tricts
2. Community Water Safety &
Sanitation Workshops for 20
most vulnerable communities
3. National Public Health Coordi-
nation Meeting for Public Health
Technicians & Professionals
4. Disaster Assessment & Needs
Analysis Workshops for NEMO
and BRC
5. Management of Relief Supplies
Workshop for BRC Staff and vol-
unteers and other disaster man-
agement personnel
6. Project Cycle Management & ECHO Workshop for BRC and Federation Staff

Pubic Service Announcements (PSAs)

As part of the Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Program, the BRC is currently working with a
local production company to produce up to six 1-minute PSAs. These PSAs will strengthen the
BRC’s public education campaign on hurricane preparedness. They will be aired nationally start-
ing June 1 – at the onset of hurricane season 2001.

Disaster Preparedness Manuals

As part of its continuing training process, the BRC has

developed an operational Manual for Disaster Manage-
ment to be used by the BRC in the event of a disaster.

Telecommunication

The existing telecommunications system has been expanded by the installation of 6 VHF base
stations, 6 VHF mobile stations, 1 repeater station, and 1 HF station. This system will enhance the
BRC’s communication with its branches especially during an emergency.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 9

 DEVELOPMENT PHASE
Other Equipment

During the course of the Hurricane Keith Operation the following equipment has been purchased:

1. One 4 wheel drive Toyota Landcruiser

2. One Xerox 5820 photo copier
3. Three overhead projectors & screens,
4. Ten CPR Mannequins sets for first aid training
5. Two desk top computers and printers
6. Three cellular phones
7. Sony Digital Camera
8. Office Furniture

Capital Improvement Projects

In order to strengthen the response capacity of the BRC, the following projects have been
undertaken.

1. New Roof for Headquarters: Due to hurricane

damage, a new roof was erected at the BRC
National Headquarters in Belize City.

2. Orange Walk Renovation: A second story has

been added to the Orange Walk Branch building
to accommodate training and EOC facilities.

3. Belmopan Renovation: An upgrade of the

Belmopan Branch building, which includes
improved security, drainage and EOC
operational facilities, has been completed.

4. Warehouse Upgrades: Six containers now

being used as warehouses have been weatherized
with a roof and ventilation in order to reduce interior
heat and humidity. One container will be transferred
to Corozal branch and two larger containers will be
transferred to Lord’s Bank which is the site of the
BRC’s future warehouse facilities.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 10

 RESPONSE TO LOCAL APPEAL
TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS $677,914.66
$50,000 and above
Inter American Development Bank 100,000.00 Church of Jesus Christ 59,464.20
of the Latter Day Saints
Visa Corporation 100,000.00 Protected Areas Conservation
Trust (PACT) 50,000.00
Spanish Red Cross 60,000.00

$25,000 - $49,999
The American Red Cross 49,990.00 Barclays Bank PLC 25,000.00

$10,000 - $24,999
Belize Electric Co. Ltd 20,000.00 Bank Of Nova Scotia 10,000.00
Provident Bank and Trust Ltd. 11,000.00 Caterpillar Americas Corp 10,000.00
Love FM (Radiothon) 10,152.18 Courts Belize Ltd. 10,000.00
Gentrac 10,000.00 The Belize Bank Ltd. 10,000.00

$2,500- $9,999
Australian High Commission 9,902.50 Belize National Building Society 5,000.00
Donations Anonymous (BBL) 8,994.25 Data Pro (Radiothon) 5,000.00
Belize Chinese Community 8,206.52 Donations Anonymous (BBplc) 4,394.65
Damas de Guatemala 6,000.00 JMA Motors 4,000.00
Guardian Life Limited 5,500.00 Concerned Belizeans Of Chicago 3,880.46
Donations Anonymous (BNS) 5,389.01 Smoky Mermaid 3,700.00
Belize Rotary Club 5,000.00 Belize Game Fishing Assn. 3,000.00
Belize Sugar Industries Ltd. 5,000.00 Belize Credit Union League 2,950.50
BSI Employees Holding Ltd. 5,000.00 Radisson Fort George Hotel 2,500.00

$1,000 - $2499
Agrimech 2000.00 Franco, Carlos Felipe Fr 1000.00
Belize Chamber of Commerce 2000.00 Holy Redeemer Credit Union 1000.00
Sylvester, Anthony 2000.00 Chateau Caribbean 1000.00
Capital Life Insurance 1600.00 Belize Council of Churches 1000.00
JMA Rentals 1500.00 DFC Belmopan 1000.00
Texaco Belize Ltd. (Staff) 1475.00 Belize Hotel Association 1000.00
BAFA Inc 1400.00 Chatillion Company (Brodies) 1000.00
Sak Limited / Deloitte 1025.00 Underwood, Maurice 1000.00
Ministry of Natural Resources 1020.75 Vernon, Vance C 1000.00
(staff)
Deloitte and Touche 1000.00

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 11

 RESPONSE TO LOCAL APPEAL
(In Belize Currency)
OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS:
Arthurs, Kenneth 100. 00 Lay Ministers O.L.O.G. Parish 100.00
Augusto Quan 250.00 Lindo, Dianne 25.00
Avery, Hazel 100.00 Long Green Turf, Inc. 150.00
Balderamos/Stewart Family 100.00 Love, Cindy 147.94
BATSUB (Civilian) 325.00 Manzanero, Rosalindo 100.00
Belize City Council 500.00 Marine Welding Services 500.00
Belize Dry Cleaners 500.00 Martinez, J. 100.00
Belize Flour Mills (Staff) 335.00 Mercer, Judith 20.00
Belize Tampa Community 650.00 Mopan River Resort 500.00
Belize Waterfront Empl Assoc. 500.00 National Handicraft Center 200.00
Belmopan Photography Club 100.00 Nichols, Betty 49.31
Bennett, Lorraine 30.00 Norman, Albert 40.00
Bennett, Mr. 5.00 O’Connor, Patrick Rev. Rt. 723.61
Berea Bible Chapel 70.00 Pallotine Sisters 500.00
Briceno, John & Jaime 500.00 Pinero, Carlos 100.00
Buenavides, Marcelo 3.00 Radiothon (2) 220.00
Calderon, Trinidad 20.00 Ramirez, Jose Dr. 400.00
Castillo, Ethel & Jacqueline 20.00 Ramirez, Shannon 20.00
Castillo, Kevin 100.00 Reinholtzen, R.C. Rev 50.00
Castillo, Othon 25.00 Roberts, Edgar 25.00
Chanona, Anthony 500.00 RSV. LTD. 500.00
Conteh, A.O. (Chief Justice) 500.00 Sadie Vernon High School 100.00
Courtenay, Denise 500.00 Saldivar, Luigi 500.00
Dakers, Olivia 10.00 Sampson, Simeon & Sylvia 250.00
Deshield, Gerald 20.00 Sheppard & Mullin Law Firm Staff 700.00
Deuck, L. 200.00 Simpson, Leonora 100.00
Duda, Irma 20.00 Skeete, Hazel 100.00
Edward P. York High School 500.00 Smith, Norman 150.00
Ellis, Charles 25.00 SJC 4th Form Students 601.00
Evans, Arilee 50.00 Stone, Peter 122.56
Fandrei, Henry 150.00 Stump, Susan 10.00
Flores, Salome & Augustine 125.00 Suly Development Int’l 197.25
Flowers, Georgia 20.00 Syscomp 500.00
Flowers, Geraldine 3.00 The Belize Zoo 300.00
Fultec Systems 500.00 The Belizean Assoc (St. Louis) 646.00
Garbutt, Neil Dr 200.00 Toledo Community College 479.95
Gidwani, Wilma 500.00 Toledo District Community 56.00
Gonzalez, Belinda 25.00 Usher, E. Ms 50.00
Great Belize Productions 500.00 Usher, Pastor Godfrey 100.00
Guerra, L. 50.00 Vasquez, A. 100.00
Guerrero, Araceli 10.00 Wendt, Willard & Jessie 200.00
Hamden Hall School 604.67 Wilken, Susan 200.00
Harrenstein, Howard & Leona 200.00 World Heart Corp. (David Levy) 663.35
Holy Angels School 27.00 Young, Malcolm 250.00
Hummingbird Elementary School 225.00 Young’s Law Firm 600.00
Khouri, Wajdi 10.00 Zelaya, Amaro 200.00
Kirwan, Rosemarie Sister 40.00 Mr. & Mrs. Van Opstal 525.00

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 12


American Airlines (Staff)
Bank of Nova Scotia (Staff)
Bank of Nova Scotia (CZL)
Belize Audubon Society
Bel-Caribe
Belize Defence Force
Belize Lions Club
Belize Medical Assoc (Lab.
Staff)
Belize Mills Ltd.
Belize Sugar Industries
Belize/Atlanta Association
Belize/Miami Community
Bou Nahra
Bradley’s Custom Brokerage
Building Block Pre-School
CAD Construction
Caribbean Shipping Co.
Carlisle Laboratories
(Brodies)
Church of Latter Day Saints
(ARC)
Customs Department
Excelsior High School
Flowers Edwin
Gaylord Store
Gill Family (Belize City)
Grace Kennedy (Belize)
Harris Lennox
Senator Harkin (ARC)
Hofius Ltd
Hofius (Staff)
Holy Angels School
Hummingbird Kindergarten
School
Hyde Melody
Immigration Department
Independence, Seine Bight,
Mango Creek Villages
Isaacs Diedra
Young, Sir Colville
Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001
RESPONSE TO LOCAL APPEAL
IN KIND CONTRIBUTIONS
10 Boxes Clothing James Brodies & Co. 76 Cases Sausages
Clothing Ladyville Star Bright Assorted Groceries
Pre-School
Clothing, Soap Malic’s Poultry Clothing, Shoes & Pampers
Transp. & Dist. Service Maria Chang 100 Sacks for Distribution
Clothing Medina Shawn Clothing
Transportation Methodist Mission Assorted Food & Water
200 bedrolls& medicines Ms. Kenny Assorted Groceries
1 Case of Milk Inspector Murray Clothing
2 Sacks of Flour Nabisco Caribbean Assorted Canned Goods
Export Inc (San Cas) (value $25,000)
Transportation Pathology Lab Groceries
Clothing Peace Corps Canned Goods &
Secretarial Services
Assorted Relief Supplies Police Department Security
200 bags Canned Food Reneau Barbara Assorted Relief Supplies
Brokerage Service Rene’s Store Ovaltine & Soap
Assorted Canned Food Reyes Ernesto Clothing
Transportation Rotary Club of Belize Assorted Foods & Med.
Transportation & Shipping Schultz Ann Medicines
Medicines & Vitamins Scouts Association Assorted Groceries
Food packages Simon Quan 7 Cases groceries
Customs Services Shell Belize Ltd Assorted Groceries
Clothing Smith Lloyd 4 Sacks Flour
Clothing Stationery House 150 School Bags
w/Supplies
Bale Clothing SJC 6th Form Students Clothing & Canned Goods
Clothing Stann Creek Red Clothing & Canned Goods
Cross Branch
Canned Food Toledo Red Cross Clothing & Canned Goods
Branch
4 boxes medicines Toledo Community via Clothing & Canned Goods
R.C. Branch
2,700 Friendship boxes Tung, Kuang Jung 13 Sacks Rice
Soap & Toothpaste Underwood Maurice Assorted Groceries
Clothing UNICEF 20,700 Chlorine Tabs
Canned Goods University of Belize Clothing
Clothing; Canned Goods Valdez Teddy Clothing
Clothing Van Opstal, Mr. & Mrs. M 25lbs Flour
Service Wildwood Mission Assorted Clothing, Shoes,
Savanah Georgia Toys, 1 Wheel Chair
Clothing & Shoes Wong, Andrew Lard
Mattress J. Wray & Nephew Assorted Food
Clothing Zelaya’s Grocery 7 Cases Canned Food
13
 RESPONSE TO INTERNATIONAL APPEAL

CASH CONTRIBUTIONS

NAME USD BZD

ECHO 486,620.59 973,241.18
BRITISH RED CROSS - DIFD 144,175.29 288,350.59
IRISH GOVERNMENT 107,953.53 215,907.06
OXFAM 74,087.65 148,175.29
SWISS GOVERNMENT 50,000.00 100,000.00
JAPANESE RED CROSS 39,411.76 78,823.53
CANADIAN GOVERNMENT - CIDA 33,664.71 67,329.41
ICELANDIC RED CROSS 4,876.47 9,752.94
MONACO RED CROSS 2,697.65 5,395.29

SUB-TOTAL RECEIVED IN CASH 943,487.65 1,886,975.29

IN KIND CONTRIBUTIONS

AMERICAN RED CROSS 81,000.00 162,000.00

GERMAN RED CROSS 67,035.29 134,070.58
SWEDISH RED CROSS 23,529.41 47,058.82
HONDURAS RED CROSS 17,647.06 35,294.12
SPANISH RED CROSS 8,406.47 16,812.94
NORWEGIAN RED CROSS 6,184.12 12,368.24
UNICEF 2760.00 5520.00

SUB-TOTAL IN KIND CONTRIBUTIONS 206,562.35 413,124.7

TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS 1,150,050.00 2,300,099.99

• Financial report will be available upon completion of external audit.

• Exchange Rate US $1 – BZE $2

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 14

 INTERNATIONAL DONOR COMMUNITY

The Belize Red Cross would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the following Interna-
tional Donors, without whose support our work in this operation would not have been possible.

ECHO

Swiss Government

OXFAM

CIDA

UNICEF

MEMBERS OF THE RED CROSS FAMILY

American Red Cross

✚ Japanese Red Cross & Government
British Red Cross & Government Monaco Red Cross
German Red Cross Norwegian Red Cross
Honduras Red Cross Spanish Red Cross
Icelandic Red Cross Swedish Red Cross
Irish Red Cross & Government

The International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies.

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 15

 STRATEGY 2010

THE INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS PLAN

Red Cross Societies throughout the world (Belize included) have committed themselves
to a Plan for the next ten years called “Strategy 2010”. In this plan our work in the most
vulnerable communities will focus on four core areas, namely:

• Promotion of The Red Cross Fundamental Principles and Humanitarian Values

• Disaster preparedness
• Disaster response and welfare services
• Health services and care in the community.

THE NATIONAL RED CROSS PROGRAMME

All areas of Strategy 2010 are especially relevant to Belize. Our plan will focus on facilitat-
ing:
• Basic primary health care services to those most at risk, such as children and needy
individuals with chronic diseases requiring medicines which they cannot afford
• Health Education to empower people to be able to make informed decisions with the
management of their health problems
• Distribution of social welfare supplies –particularly nutritional supplements to those in
especially difficult circumstances
• Promotion of Community Disaster Preparedness focusing on rural communities
• Training programmes for community workers as well as volunteers – with an emphasis
on youth as they are vital to the life and the sustainability of the National Society.

OUR APPEAL

Once again, we place our trust in the generosity of our faithful supporters. We rely upon
you to give favourable consideration to our appeal for your kind contribution. Only with
your support are we able to deliver our services and activities year after year.
Without people’s support nothing can be achieved.

OUR PROMISE

The volunteers of the BRC pledge to continue working in accordance with the Seven
Fundamental Principles in assisting the most vulnerable people in our communities.

RED CROSS RED CRESCENT

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 16

 BELIZE RED CROSS SOCIETY
The Belize Red Cross was established by statute on 18th August 1983 and was recognized as a
member of the International Red Cross in April 1984. Our national headquarters is located at 1
Gabourel Lane, Belize City. There is a branch in each district (2 in Cayo, 2 in Belize). The General
Assembly and Central Committee (Executive) govern the BRC.

CENTRAL COMMITTEE
President H.E. Eamon Courtenay, SC
1st Vice-President Ms. Delsyia Goff, MBE, JP
2nd Vice President Vacant
Treasurer Ms. Betty Tam, CPA
Director General Vacant
Members Mr. C. B. Hyde, CBE
Ms. L. M. Young-Barrow, SC
Mr. Rene Villanueva
Dr. Peter Craig, MD
Mrs. Karen Diaz
Mr. Kevin Castillo
Mrs. Audrey Courtenay, OBE.
Youth Representative Terri Ann Villas
Representative of Branches Mrs. Josie Sharp
Ministry of Health Mrs. Marjorie Parks, MS
Ministry of Education Mrs. Dativa Martinez, MA
Ministry of Human Development Ms. Jenny Lovell, MS
Branch Chairpersons Corozal – Mrs. Elfrida Miguel, J.P
Orange Walk – Mrs. C. Cansino, BSC
Cayo – Dr. Douglas Smith, DDS
Belmopan – Mr. Edmund Zuniga
Stann Creek–Mrs. Estella Humphreys
Toledo – Mrs. Shirley Mahung M.B.E.
San Pedro – Mrs. Natalie Palen
Belize District – Mrs. Rita Ramos
DISASTER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Audrey Courtenay – Chairperson
Eamon Courtenay, Delsyia Goff, William Skeen, Kevin Castillo, Russel Longsworth, Judith Reid, Anthony
Thurton, Herbert Bradley, James Nisbet, Angelita Magana, Frank Panton, Arturo Vasquez

IFRC BELIZE SUB -DELEGATION

Nina Nobel –Head of Sub Delegation
Alejandro Valverde – Logistics
Fidel Pena – Water/Sanitation
Dr. Geir Needgard –Health
Mike Elliott – (OXFAM) Water/ Sanitation
Inigo Vila - Relief
Florita Gidwani – Administrator
Marta Castillo – Accountant
Frank Panton – Water/Sanitation
Marylee Ellis – Health
Angelita Magaña-Health Assistant

BRANCH MANAGERS OF EMERGENCY OPERATION CENTRES

Belmopan – Marylee Ellis and Maria Pena Orange Walk- Adela Parra
Corozal - Emily Miguel

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS STAFF

Marilyn Arnold, Assistant Director General Paulette Pratt, Secretary
Bernadette Skeen, Project Accountant Lisett Aldana, Project Secretary
Ashley Meighan, Assistant/ Messenger Evelyn Sanchez, General Assistant
Betty Nicolas, General Assistant

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 17

RED CROSS RED CRESCENT