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Direct Relief Project to assist VI in times of crisis- Hon Vincent O. Wheatley

Healthcare services in the Virgin Islands have been enhanced to better respond to natural disasters and external shocks, following the completion and handover of the Direct Relief project. Photo: Facebook
Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) stated that ‘’This represents yet another meaningful step toward strengthening the resilience and reliability of our public health system. Through this project, we have the capacity to safeguard essential healthcare services, particularly in times of crisis.’’ Photo: Facebook
Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) stated that ‘’This represents yet another meaningful step toward strengthening the resilience and reliability of our public health system. Through this project, we have the capacity to safeguard essential healthcare services, particularly in times of crisis.’’ Photo: Facebook
As part of the Direct Relief Project, the installation of an oxygen-generating system provides the BVI Health Services Authority with a sustainable and cost-effective solution that reduces dependence on external oxygen supplies. Photo: Facebook
As part of the Direct Relief Project, the installation of an oxygen-generating system provides the BVI Health Services Authority with a sustainable and cost-effective solution that reduces dependence on external oxygen supplies. Photo: Facebook
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - The Direct Relief Project, aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the Virgin Islands to better respond to natural disasters and external shocks, has been officially handed over to the Ministry of Health and Social Development.

This USD 250,000 project was funded through a grant from the OECS Commission. It is an initiative that aims to enhance health infrastructure and effectively address health challenges associated with climate change in the Territory.

The handover and commissioning ceremony for the Direct Relief project took place on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the patio of the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

Increase capacity in times of crisis

Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) stated, "This represents yet another meaningful step toward strengthening the resilience and reliability of our public health system. Through this project, we have the capacity to safeguard essential healthcare services, particularly in times of crisis."

As part of the Direct Relief Project, the installation of an oxygen-generating system provides the BVI Health Services Authority with a sustainable and cost-effective solution that reduces dependence on external oxygen supplies. 

New opportunity and revenue generation

The minister also noted that this intervention creates new opportunities for revenue generation in support of the VI's broader healthcare groups.

"The installation of a new oxygen concentrator system, pharmacy green refrigerator, and standby generators across key public health facilities ensures that our health facilities and services can continue uninterrupted, even in the face of natural disasters or unexpected power disruptions."

He added, "These upgrades not only improved day-to-day operations, but also enhanced our readiness and ability to respond effectively during emergencies."

Lessons from past events 

"Together, these investments ensure business continuity, safe for medicines, reliable oxygen, and preparedness for the hurricane season. The Virgin Islands, like many small island development states, is facing ongoing challenges from climate change, natural disasters, and external shocks," Hon Wheatley emphasised, reflecting on lessons learned from past events such as the hurricanes of 2017 and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

He further stated that this project will also focus on practical interventions to ensure continuity of care and protection for the most vulnerable populations.

4 Responses to “Direct Relief Project to assist VI in times of crisis- Hon Vincent O. Wheatley”

  • Tafari Zharr (31/10/2025, 15:00) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    GRAVITY IS THE INFINITE WRATH
    by Tafari Zharr

    But first let me take you To Sesame Street “SING” by The Carpenters - lyrics went like this

    La-la-la-la-la
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    Sing (sing)
    Sing a song (sing)
    Let the world
    Sing along


    Like The The Good We Do
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    UK’s Royal Mnemonic Verse
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    In between time;


    Sing
    Sing a song
    Make it simple
    To last your whole life long
    Don't worry that it's not good enough
    For anyone else to hear
    Just sing
    Sing a song


    Copyright 2025 by Tafari Zharr. All rights reserved.
    —————————————————————————
  • Cheeeeez (31/10/2025, 15:38) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    We are in crisis mode all now
  • Oh Really? (31/10/2025, 16:03) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    What happened to the solar and wind powered back up units previously donated to this ministry? Cannot look after anything...
  • Just learned (31/10/2025, 16:19) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    That Jamaica had a Catastrophe Bond in place, practically Hurricane insurance. Maybe we can look into something like that


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