Community and Society

After two successful culinary classes and 17 graduates, Holy Cross Anglican School is excited to announce that it will be starting the third SPICE (San Pedro Institute of Culinary Education) course on May 5, 2026 with 30 classes one night per week through December, culminating in a celebratory graduation dinner.

San Pedro’s youth are set to take center stage as a series of free, family-friendly events organized by Elito Arceo bring the community together through sports, creativity, and outdoor fun. Open to both primary and high school students, the initiative encourages participation across the island, with schools playing a key role in engaging children. The lineup includes a triathlon on May 9th, a children’s fishing competition on May 10th, and a pallet car race on July 12th. Sign-ups are being coordinated through local schools via principals, with applications available at no cost. These events will highlight skills such as swimming, cycling, running, fishing, and cart building in a community setting.

The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) continues its campaign against illegal dumping, warning those involved that they will be penalized. According to the council, inspections are being carried out regularly, and anyone found illegally dumping garbage can face fines of up to $5,000 and possible criminal charges. The administration has noted that the issue remains a major concern and is urging the public to assist by reporting littering offenses. Reports can be made by calling 226-2198 or by visiting the SPTC office on Barrier Reef Drive, with evidence if possible.

Hope Haven Children’s Home continues to provide essential shelter and education to vulnerable children, despite relying heavily on generous donations. In an interview with board members on April 9th, the nonprofit shared that it currently houses 11 girls, many of whom are victims of sexual assault, neglect, or abandonment, and requires approximately $30,000 monthly to cover staff wages, food, and operational costs.

Caye Caulker residents continue to demand answers about allegations that the beachfront property housing the community police station was put up for sale. Construction of the new police station on the site has halted, further raising concerns among Hicaqueños. Without clear responses from the central government, islanders, led by the Caye Caulker Village Council, have been voicing their concerns since April 13, holding public meetings and peaceful protests to seek clarity on the matter.

The United States Embassy in Belize Consular Section team held town hall meetings in San Pedro on April 14th and in Caye Caulker on April 15th. The San Pedro session took place at Blue Water Grill from 10AM to 12PM. The event was organized by the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan’s American Citizens Services Unit to provide information and assistance to U.S. citizens living in or visiting Belize.

San Pedro Town Councilor Dianeli Aranda organized the second Market Day at The Cart Stop in San Pedro Town on Saturday, April 11th, from 11AM to 7PM. The event featured BBQ lunch sales, handmade crafts, unique finds, ice cream, and music, drawing both locals and visitors.

A Youth Empowerment Session was held on Thursday, April 9th, from 9AM to 12PM at San Pedro High School. The event brought together young people for interactive discussions on development topics as part of the “Leave No One Behind: Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy” project. The initiative is supported by Irish Aid, Luxembourg Aid & Development, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Belize Family Life Association (BFLA), the Department of Youth Services (DYS), the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Key representatives included Jewel Crawford and Kris Miller from UNFPA, Bryan Paul from BFLA, and Kyle Miller from DYS.