A Christmas Party for guests at the Resource Center

Some one hundred and ninety-two persons are registered to the Resource Center here in Belize City. They include those that are mentally ill, the homeless and others. On a daily basis, some fifty persons seek the services of the institution. Well today, at its offices on Vernon Street, a Christmas party was held for the participants to spread cheer during the season.

Joyce Ellis, Administrator, Belize City Resource Center

“During the Christmas time, everybody wants to find somewhere to go, something to do and we are hearing about parties all over the place so why not have a party for our participants here so that they can feel also as if they are a part of the society.”

Reporter

“Tell us about the different things that they did during the event?”

Joyce Ellis

Joyce Ellis

“Well during the event, we had them dance; a participant did the prayer; we also did raffles and they just interacted with each other. Today especially, we have people that haven’t been here; they are here for the first time. So we have met new participants. So they feel that it is welcoming and they will be coming back to us.”

Reporter

“Now why is it necessary for something like this to be done, given their condition?”

Joyce Ellis

“Well because we want them to feel important. For me, my motto is do on to others. The same treatment I would want around this time; that is the same treatment I want for them. So we had this little dinner. If you notice, the place is set up like a restaurant, like a banquet scene, and I must say that all the center pieces were made by them.”

A breakfast will also be held for the participants on Christmas Day.