5 years ago Janette Neal and her staff at Coningsby Inn began preparing and distributing food to those in need on Christmas Eve. The initiative began when she realized that many families in the Belize City area often go without a Christmas dinner or a meal. And so she set out to provide a warm meal to those in need every Christmas eve, with the support of other businesses and Belizeans from abroad. And every year, she does more plates, and spreads more joy - she told us about this year's plan:
Janette Neal, Owner, Coningsby inn
"For the past few years we've been disturbing food to the homeless and to whoever is in need and each year we increase the amount. Last year we did 125 to 150 and we went all over Belize city we even found a family that was so happy just to get the meal. So this year I said I wanted to reach 200 and I mentioned it to some of my guests that come here like ministry groups repeats and they were so delighted they supported me also I have diaspora in California they have also helped me and some local people in Belize as well. I am gung-ho but the reason I am reaching out is that so I really want the people who needs it to get it to have it. Even again we are planning to set up a table outside by the yard a tent, tables and chairs so if someone wants to come and sit and have a nice warm meal they are welcome. It's Christmas Eve between three and seven or until the meal runs out."
Neal encourages those in need of a meal on Christmas eve to come by the establishment where tables and chairs will be made available to those interested, on the 24th between the hours of three and seven.
