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

Home , Caye Caulker, Hurricane Keith

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 experienced.

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 target 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 distribution 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 workshops 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 districts 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 volunteers and other disaster management 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 RESPONSE TO LOCAL APPEAL

IN KIND CONTRIBUTIONS

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

Belize Red Cross–Hurricane Keith Response, Oct 2000–May 2001 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 Florita Gidwani – Administrator Alejandro Valverde – Logistics Marta Castillo – Accountant Fidel Pena – Water/Sanitation Frank Panton – Water/Sanitation Dr. Geir Needgard –Health Marylee Ellis – Health Mike Elliott – (OXFAM) Water/ Sanitation Angelita Magaña-Health Assistant Inigo Vila - Relief

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