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ABOUT BELIZE Most Americans think Belize is an island, because that's what they see when they google Belize. But that only represents about 5 percent of Belize' land mass. The rest of Belize is actually a country in Central America. It borders Guatemala on the west and Mexico on the North. Belize is best known for it's intriguing mix of tropical jungles rich with wildlife, mountains and mysterious Maya temples, as well as its wide variety of peoples and culture - Spanish, Creoles, Garifunas and Maya Indians. But there are also many needs in this developing country where 60% are children (under 18) and where desperate poverty, occultic practices and diseases are commonplace. "Drugs, violence, prostitution and teen pregnancy are an all-too-common reality for Belizean children, who have few positive alternatives." UNICEF Poverty: Poverty in Belize is widespread. 40% of Belizean children live below the poverty line. This means that these children do not have their basic food and non-food needs met. Many live in grass huts made of sticks and leaves. Malnutrition: Stunting due to malnutrition affects 40% of the poorest children. Abuse: Child abuse and neglect is a major, widespread problem in Belize. In the majority of cases, the abuser is a family member. AIDS: Belize has the highest AIDS rate in Central America. Education: 55% of poor children never have the chance to attend school past 5th grade. Health: Belize faces shortages of technicians and professionals, especially competent doctors. Many Belizeans who learn such occupations move to other countries in search of advancement. Belize' few hospitals are mostly located in urban areas, far out of reach for many of the poorest children. More info on Belize: |
