Former British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (HSA) Human Resource Manager and At-Large candidate for the upcoming general election, Levor A.H. Lettsome, is urging the government to replace the current “food basket” approach with a modern, card-based social assistance system while also questioning the prioritisation of nearly $800,000 in sidewalk and tree-removal works on DeCastro Street in Road Town. Photo: Facebook

Referring to the Food Baskets, Levor A.H. Lettsome, stated, “The government controls what they can get, or they cannot get. This is foolishness. Why are we in this day and age talking about food baskets?”Photo: VINO/File

Speaking to the Talking Points programme on Monday, September 7, 2026, Lettsome argued that the food basket, which is controlled by the government, especially for people who have lost jobs, live with disabilities, or face other hardships, can be considered outdated. Photo: Facebook

Lettsome, who chairs the newly formed Virgin Islands Innovative Association (VIIA) and is its first declared Territorial At-Large candidate, said the territory should move away from the food baskets narrative and instead provide monthly electronic benefits that residents can use directly at retailers. 

Food Baskets outdated 

Speaking to the Talking Points programme on Monday, September 7, 2026, Lettsome argued that the food basket initiative can be considered outdated.

Referring to the Food Baskets, he stated, “The government controls what they can get, or they cannot get. This is foolishness. Why are we in this day and age talking about food baskets?” 

He added, “Give the people that $700 and something dollars that they’re spending to go dig up the tree [on DeCastro Street]. That thing should have been the social development institution providing funds for people who need support,” he said, proposing an electronic card system similar to the United States’ food stamp programme. He said the programme could be referred to as “supplementary assistance.”

Lettsome proposed loading a fixed amount onto each beneficiary’s bank card monthly, allowing them to purchase food and essentials directly.