Habitat for Humanity Belize

Eager to be a part of a Christian ministry that would change the lives of many Belizeans who were in need of a simple, decent and affordable place to live, a group of concerned citizens came together to start a Habitat for Humanity program. In 1999, Habitat Belize officially opened its doors when it received government approval to operate as a not-for-profit organization.

Habitat for Humanity began focusing its house-building efforts in the nation’s largest metropolis, Belize City, by offering low-income families simple, decent shelter at an affordable cost.

In 2002, Habitat Belize began expanding its reach towards the southern region. The first group of houses built uses an innovative construction model, HABICON, which proved successful in Habitat Costa Rica. These two-bedroom houses use pre-fabricated, micro concrete panels that withstand hurricanes. Built on stilts, the 20 x 20ft houses remain above ground to produce cooler interior temperatures, avoid humidity and facilitate hillside construction.

Housing need in Belize
According to a 2000 national census, 44 percent of households are comprised of five or more members, while 59 percent of houses have only two or less bedrooms – a clear signal that overcrowding is a significant problem. Poverty hits hardest in the southern region, specifically in Toledo, where 57 percent of the population lives in impoverished conditions. In Belize City, 24 percent of the population is considered poor, according to the Poverty Assessment Report. On average, poor populations nationwide struggle to survive on less than 117 Belize Dollars (about US$60) a month.