Scenes from the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s meeting with Older Adults Sharing in Service (OASIS) Seniors Group at the Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s meeting with Older Adults Sharing in Service (OASIS) Seniors Group at the Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Scenes from the Ministry of Health and Social Development’s meeting with Older Adults Sharing in Service (OASIS) Seniors Group at the Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

That is according to Acting Chief Social Development Officer Ms Shirma C. George, while visiting with the Older Adults Sharing in Service (OASIS) Seniors Group in the Second District at the Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church Fellowship Hall recently. 

“The Social Development Department continues to work towards strengthening and expanding senior engagement programmes throughout the Virgin Islands.”

The OASIS initiative, she added, demonstrates the power of community-led action, and we are encouraged by the level of participation and support shown in the Second District. 

“We will continue to assess how best to support and expand programmes of this nature in alignment with national policies and standards.”

The meeting, convened at the invitation of the Second District Representative Hon Melvin M. Turnbull, provided an opportunity for the Ministry’s team to hear directly from seniors about the group’s activities and impact within the community.

Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), Minister for Health and Social Development, expressed appreciation for the initiative and its positive impact on the seniors in the district.

Engagement, such as the meeting, the minister said, allows the Ministry to better understand the needs of the VI’s older population as it continues exploring ways to strengthen support. 

“The OASIS Seniors Group is a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together to support one another. I commend the organisers and participants for creating a space that promotes dignity, inclusion, and well-being among our seniors.”

Weekly seniors meeting

Operating for just over a year, the OASIS Seniors Group hosts weekly gatherings every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The initiative focuses on fostering fellowship, promoting wellness, and strengthening social support among older adults. The programme is currently supported through community contributions and the assistance of the Second District Representative and other community partners.

During the engagement, seniors shared their experiences, demonstrated aspects of their weekly programme, and highlighted the positive impact the initiative has had on their lives. The session also provided a platform for open dialogue with a team from the Ministry of Health and Social Development, who listened to participants’ perspectives and commended the group for their commitment to community building and active ageing.

Hon Turnbull and Deputy Secretary Mrs Sheniah Armstrong-Jones also attended the meeting.