Belize

Context at a glance

Homeowner Joyce works on her house. Habitat houses in Belize are constructed of concrete blocks to withstand hurricanes

The 2000 National Census revealed that 44 percent of households have five or more members, but 59 percent of houses have two or less bedrooms. This means that overcrowding is a significant problem for families in Belize.

Poverty hits hardest in the southern region, specifically in Toledo, where 57 percent of the population lives below the poverty line. On average, low-income families struggle to survive on less than 117 Belize Dollars (about £33) a month.

Habitat for Humanity programme

In 1999, Habitat for Humanity Belize officially opened its doors thanks to a group of concerned citizens who wanted to change the lives of Belizeans who were in need of a simple, decent and affordable place to live.

HFH began focusing its house-building efforts in the nation's largest metropolis, Belize City. There are two types of Habitat house: two-bedroom homes measure 18 by 22 ft and three-bedroom homes measure 18 by 28 ft. Due to Belize's location in the hurricane belt, Habitat homes are built of cement block to ensure durability and safety.

In 2002, HFH Belize began expanding its reach towards the southern region. The first group of houses built there used an innovative construction model called HABICON, which had already proved successful in Costa Rica. These two-bedroom houses use pre-fabricated, micro-concrete panels that withstand hurricanes. The 20 x 20 ft houses are built on stilts above ground level to keep the inside temperature cooler, avoid humidity and make hillside construction easier.

Partner families have 10 to 12 years to repay their mortgage through affordable monthly instalments. Their Habitat house is insured against hurricanes, fires and other risks.

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