$3 Million More for Grocery Bags, Another $3M for Housing

Government is putting an additional $6 million into grocery and housing assistance over the next five months. The funding will double the grocery bag programme and expand housing support available through area representatives. 

The grocery programme will receive an additional $3 million to reach more families who struggle to afford basic food supplies. Another $3 million will go towards housing assistance for constituents who need help with minor home repairs and other household expenses.

Prime Minister John Briceño revealed the allocations on Wednesday in an interview and made clear that Opposition representatives will also receive funds to assist their constituents.

“Even the UDP, you all will be getting this money, member for Mesopotamia and Queen Square, you all will get this money too so you could help,” Briceño told News 5.

He added, “We don’t look at red or blue or green when it comes to helping our citizens.”

The allocations form part of a wider $30 million cost-of-living relief programme Cabinet has been considering. Other proposed measures include changes to the income tax threshold and rent legislation.

The additional assistance comes as Belize continues to face rising household costs, with public confidence falling to its lowest level since April 2024, according to the latest figures by the Statistical Institute of Belize. 

The grocery and housing allocations provide short-term relief, but Government has yet to outline the full details of the $30 million programme.