On Sunday November 30th, The San Pedro AIDS Commission and National AIDS Commission/ Island Committee (NAC Island Committee) collaborated in hosting a World AIDS Day Fundraising Fair at the Central Park. International AIDS Day is observed on December 1st and the groups promoted activities such as free HIV rapid testing, information and counselling, condom distribution, and of course some pastry and food sales.
With two HIV/AIDS Awareness groups on the island, activities got underway at 10AM, and saw a host of visitors stopping by the various booths. Among the visitors were Miss San Pedro Michelle Nuñez, who, like many others, decided to “Know Your Status” and get tested. Despite the rainy weather conditions, Rompe Raja struck up the live band and kept the entertainment coming steadily throughout the day. The San Pedro AIDS Commission sold delicious pastries, rice and beans, and cold drinks, while the NAC Island Committee offered free testing, education and counselling.
At the end of the day’s activities, the day fair proved to be quite successful as not only were food items sold out, but 41 people were tested and educated on HIV awareness and prevention methods. President of the San Pedro AIDS Commission Felix Ayuso, expressed his gratitude towards the NAC Island Committee for collaborating with them and making the day a success. Ayuso also thanks everyone who came out to support the event, and donated food items as their contributions helped to improve the quality of life for persons living with HIV/AIDS.
Chair of the NAC Island Committee, Dennis Craft also thanks his committee members, volunteers and the San Pedro AIDS Commission for their continuous works towards HIV prevention and education in Belize. He also thanks the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II, Ministry of Health health-workers who offered their services in the form of free and confidential testing, Reef TV, Lighthouse Christian Radio, The San Pedro Sun Newspaper, and everyone that was able to support the event.
