The Government of Belize has pledged a contribution of US$50,000 to the Government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to aid in relief efforts as our CARICOM sister nation continues to endure volcanic activity following the first explosive eruption of the La Soufrière volcano on Friday, April 9, 2021.
Reports indicate that a total of 85 shelters have been activated with over 3,500 housed in these and approximately 16,000 to 20,000 persons likely to be affected or displaced in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as the volcano continues its series of explosive events with significant venting of ash that are likely to continue over the next few days. The ashfall is also affecting neighbouring islands in the Eastern Caribbean at this time.
Belize welcomes Vincentians who have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the seismic activity and who may have ties to Belize through family or friends in accordance with the determined requirements for entry including COVID-19 protocols. The Government of Belize will also provide humanitarian resources as required to assist with the disaster response plan on the ground.
Close communication and coordination on the situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will continue between Belize’s National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) during this emergency.
Belize stands in full solidarity with St. Vincent and the Grenadines during these dual crises presented by disaster response and the consequential socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected in the Eastern Caribbean as they brace this catastrophic event.
Government of Belize Launches Appeal for Cash Donations to Support St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The Government of Belize has launched an appeal for cash donations to support the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines affected by the eruption of the La Soufrière Volcano.
The La Soufrière Volcano on St. Vincent erupted on April 9, 2021, wreaking widespread destruction to property and disruption to their way of life. The volcano has entered an explosive eruptive phase that may continue over the next few days and weeks. Subsequent explosions are expected to be of similar or larger magnitude.
Approximately 18% of the population of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (110,000) has been displaced by the La Soufrière eruption. Additionally, an estimated 3% of the population (3,500) is located in shelters and numbers are reported to be rising.
Heavy ash fall is a major concern and has affected persons with respiratory conditions as well as housing, drainage and infrastructure including the water supply.
Persons wishing to donate monies may do so through the Belize Red Cross. In this time of great need, the Government of Belize urges all to give as generously as possible. The people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines need our help.
