LIFE, short for Living Independently in Full Existence, is celebrating a decade of improving the lives of seniors in Southside Belize City through food access, health care, home renovation, and community support.

Founded and directed by Sister Carlette Gentle, SCN, the Catholic-inspired nonprofit began with a mission to help older adults live with dignity and companionship. “Ten years later, that promise is alive in every health visit, in every renovated home, and in every shared laugh at a senior gathering,” Sister Carlette said.

Over the past decade, LIFE has:

served 29,960 meals

distributed 6,861 food pantries

provided 15,868 transportation trips for seniors

facilitated 2,626 medical visits

completed 87 home renovations (many through its partnership with Hand in Hand Ministries)

conducted 5,200 community health worker visits

LIFE serves around 100 seniors annually, and receives support from grants, fundraising and a generous donors to meet needs. The ministry recently launched the “Adopt a Senior” initiative, inviting donors to contribute monthly to help provide meals, medical care, and transportation for older adults.

The mission of LIFE is made possible through the dedication of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, staff, volunteers, sponors and community partners that have stepped up to provide care and support for senior residents in Belize.

“The road is not easy,” Sister Carlette said. “With your support, we continue moving forward. One senior. One story. One act of care at a time.”