On December 14th, the San Pedro Red Cross held a Christmas Bake Sale, and it has been reported that the money raised will be used to help train teachers at the San Pedro Roman Catholic School with first aid skills. Â Over the past few months, those living in San Pedro Town have seen increased interest in the training of first aiders on the island, with everyone getting into the spirit of being better educated so that they can save lives.
The Red Crossâ bake sale was held at Coconut Driveâs Roadkill Bar. Â Between 11am and 2pm, a number of tasty treats were offered for sale, with many residents able to indulge their sweet tooth and find a cake or bun that took their fancy. Â Ahead of the sale, the Red Cross managed to get first aid sponsors for all 30 teachers at the Roman Catholic School, asking local businesses and residents to help raise money. Â Nineteen of the teachers were sponsored by Mark and Brooke Maggiotto, whose check was presented as part of the bake sale. Â Other supporters included Casa Picasso, Coco Locoâs Beach Bar, Edward D. Mulligan, Sherry and the San Pedro Lions Club. Â Caye Coffeeâs Paul also sponsored the event and donated $5 for every bag of coffee that was sold.
The bake sale was a huge success, and combined with sales on the day and previous donations, the event raised $1,658.75. Â The proceeds will ensure that teachers at San Pedroâs Roman Catholic School receive vital first aid training to ensure that, if the worst occurs, they are ready to come to the aid of pupils and other adults.
The Red Crossâ event also coincided with a visit from Terence Woodeye and Jessie Young.  The two members of Belize Cityâs Red Cross came to the island as part of a project for the American Red Cross/John Hopkins University survey.  As part of the research, the American Red Cross are looking into the positive ways that the organization is impacting communities around the world, and how those in San Pedro are prepared for disasters and emergencies. The results of the âSaving Lives in the Caribbean through Preparednessâ project will be unveiled after the latest survey has been contrasted with a similar questionnaire from 2012.