UNICEF’s Alison Parker Concludes Term

Alison Parker’s, UNICEF Belize Representative, four-year term is coming to an end. In her last official meeting, Parker met with the Governor General of Belize, Dame Froyla Tzalam, to express gratitude for the support towards UNICEF’s efforts during her term.

Since 2020, Parker has worked to improve the lives of children in Belize, including through the National Children’s Parliament and improving the healthcare program in Belize.

Since 1982, UNICEF has supported Belize’s Professional Community Health Worker program (ProCHW), which was highlighted in a recent research journal publication by 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐭. This initiative took a step forward in August with the launch of a new CHW manual in August 2024. During the launch ceremony, UNICEF’s Belize Representative Alison Parker said in her address, “CHWs serve as a crucial link between the formal health system and the community, addressing unmet health needs and enhancing health-system resilience. It is essential that they receive adequate training and support to provide optimal care. UNICEF will continue to invest in a trained, professional, and resilient community health program reaching all children.”

As countries face global challenges like climate change, political instability, and pandemics, experts say investing in proCHWs offers a strategic solution to strengthen health systems.