Many in city head to shelters

While the storm raged outside, residents of Belize City and other communities took shelter as best they could. Those with sturdy houses rode out the wind and rain at home. Others headed west, but those who could not sought out government designated shelters. In many cases, due to the suddenness of the hurricane’s approach, the shelters were not prepared for occupancy. Many were late in opening; most were inadequately staffed. News Five went to St. Mary’s Primary on Sunday evening and found that desperate families from the neighbourhood had made the best of a bad situation. Water had already soaked the school’s main hall, so people were forced to convert the classrooms into makeshift bedrooms. Evan Young was one of the more fortunate residents of St. Mary’s.

Stewart Krohn

“What made you decide to come here and when did you come?”

Evan Young, Shelter Occupant

“I came when the mayor said that St. Mary’s was opened. When we came, all the windows were opened and we had to close the windows and decided stay right here because we had nowhere else to go.”

Stewart Krohn

“Who all came with you?”

Evan Young

“My whole family came and some of my friends, most of them are from through the alley.”

Stewart Krohn

“So what kind of night are you looking forward to tonight?”

Evan Young

“Well I’m just looking to stay up, because you know the place is wet right now.”

Stewart Krohn

“What kind of things did you bring with you?”

Evan Young

“Well I brought some food, some clothes, all of on my back. We didn’t bring everything, we left everything home.”

Stewart Krohn

“How many people do you have with you?”

Evan Young

“In here, in the room right now, we have about 25.”