Shelter for homeless & vulnerable to be built in Long Look
On Monday, November 3, 2025, the government of the Virgin Islands and Island Concrete officially signed a contract for the construction of the Long Look Transitional Facility/Social Complex.
Contract signed
During the contract signing ceremony, Premier Wheatley stated, "This facility will serve as a bridge between unsheltered living and full community reintegration, reducing pressure on existing services and strengthening our social safety net."
The new facility will be managed jointly by the Social Development Department and the Safe Haven Transitional Centre, under the oversight of the Ministry of Health and Social Development.
Significant milestone for VI
Hon Wheatley noted that this marks a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive, compassionate, and caring Virgin Islands.
"The signing of this contract for the Long Look Transitional Facility and Social Complex is more than the start of a new building; it is a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility, as a Government and as a community, to uplift and support those among us who are most vulnerable."
Need for social support
He emphasised that successive governments have long recognised the growing need for social support and appropriate accommodation for individuals facing chronic homelessness, mental illness, substance abuse, unemployment, or a lack of family support. The Safe Haven Transitional Centre has provided hope for many, but its capacity has reached its limits.
"This new facility will significantly strengthen our ability to respond. It will provide not only structured, time-limited accommodation, but also a comprehensive range of support services for residents and families. These services will include rehabilitative and reintegration programmes, skills and employment development initiatives, and community-based support, ensuring that every person who walks through these doors receives the guidance and opportunity they need to rebuild their lives," Hon Wheatley stated.
Government's vision
The Premier stated that the government’s vision is clear: to create a safe, empowering environment that promotes rehabilitation, stability, and reintegration through coordinated social support, case management, and strong community partnerships.
"We will help transform lives, not only for today, but for generations to come. When we invest in the vulnerable, we invest in the future of our Territory. We break cycles of despair and build pathways to independence, dignity, and hope."
He further added that the Virgin Islands is, at its heart, a close-knit and compassionate society. "This is the spirit that guides us today. By helping those who need it most, we give meaning to our lives and uphold the values that define us as Virgin Islanders."
Premier Wheatley first spoke about the facility for Long Look back in February 2022, when he was Deputy Premier.
Speaking during the District 7 Town Hall Meeting at the Church of God of Prophecy in Long Look on February 23, 2022, Dr Wheatly said the Government of the Virgin Islands had acquired property in Long Look to construct the facility.
‘We are going to put what we call an almshouse on it,” he had revealed.
Meanwhile, Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R7) also attended the contract signing ceremony.
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