After an initial 72-hour quarantine that was extended to 30 days on Ambergris Caye, a lot of people on the island found themselves displaced. As the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps through the world, economies are faltering and businesses have laid off countless staff. Ambergris Caye is tourism-based, and has seen its fair share of economic downturn. Nevertheless, there has been a surge of generosity from individuals and businesses who have come together to help those who cannot help themselves. We highlight one particular person who made the call to bring hot meals to those who are in no position to feed themselves.
Maresha Reid is chef and proprietor of Pirate’s Treasure Restaurant, a fire-hearth style eatery that many know and adore. She also owns Pirate’s Not-So-Secret Beach Bar, and has staff of her own to look out for. She made the call on her Facebook page, noting that while other generous organizations and individuals are ensuring that groceries are provided, some people’s displacement leaves them without a proper cooking facility. Her goal? A three-day a week hot lunch for 120 individuals, delivered through proper channels. “Instead of canned sodium filled goods, why not provide a hot homemade plate of rice and beans with stewed chicken and pasta/veggie/potato salad?” said Reid.
Within a few hours, Reid had a lot of cooking volunteers.
Provisions soon followed, with the first batch of meals set thanks to Lino’s Meat Shop and Super Buy Supermarket.
If you are a family, couple or single person that has absolutely no food or no means of cooking, you may WhatsApp Reid at 665-5794. Those interested in donating food supplies towards the program may send a WhatsApp message to that same number as well. Reid adds that you may also contact her via Hope Haven as she is working closely with them as well. Do not call the number, she is unable to answer as she is busy cooking up a storm!
