US Virgin Islands Department of Human Services

16/06/2026

The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services is currently experiencing technical difficulties affecting our telephone connectivity at several St. Croix offices today.

Our team is actively working with our service provider to resolve the issues and restore our main lines on St. Croix as quickly as possible. In the meantime, ensuring you can reach our critical services remains our top priority.

If you need to Intake and Emergency Services, please use the following temporary alternative number:

📞 (340) 690-2886

11/06/2026

📢 IMPORTANT SERVICE UPDATE: CHILD CARE APPLICATIONS 📢

Effective today, June 11, 2026, the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services (OCCRS) is temporarily shifting to an in-person only application process.

We sincerely apologize for this disruption to our email options. To make sure every family gets the attention they need during this busy season, our team is focusing all resources on face-to-face service.

➡️ What You Need to Know:

New Applications: All new Child Care Applications and Pre-applications must be brought directly to your local district office. New submissions sent via email cannot be accepted at this time.

Already Emailed Yours? If you already emailed an application before today, it is safely in our queue and is being processed. You do not need to come in person.

📍 Where to Bring Your Paperwork:

🏝️ ST. THOMAS: Knud Hansen Complex / Building A (1303 Hospital Ground) | 📞 (340) 774-0930

🏝️ ST. CROIX: #129 Golden Rock, Christiansted | 📞 (340) 772-7147

🏝️ ST. JOHN: DHS Headquarters, St. John Multipurpose Building, Cruz Bay | 📞 (340) 776-6334

10/06/2026

The seniors of the Strive Senior Center enjoyed a memorable day of exploration and discovery on Tuesday, June 9, during a special visit to the magnificent Icon of the Seas while the vessel was docked at Crown Bay Port, St. Thomas.

Participants were given the unique opportunity to board the world’s largest cruise ship and tour several areas of the vessel, gaining a firsthand look at its impressive amenities and attractions. The group also enjoyed exploring the port area, making for a day filled with learning, sightseeing, and fellowship.

The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services extends sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this experience possible, with special thanks to Raymund Athanase for his generosity and support in providing this unforgettable opportunity for our seniors.

05/06/2026

🎓 A Proud Finale to Promotion Week! 🎓

The week of celebrations at Frederiksted Head Start concluded on Friday, June 5, with the promotional exercises of Class II, led by Teacher Adinah Simon.

Family members, friends, teachers, and staff gathered to honor a remarkable group of young learners who have spent the year exploring, growing, and developing new skills. From learning their letters and numbers to building friendships and confidence, these students have reached an important milestone on their educational journey.

The ceremony was a joyful reflection of the hard work, dedication, and support that have helped prepare these children for the exciting opportunities ahead. As they move on to kindergarten, they carry with them the knowledge, experiences, and memories gained during their time at Head Start.

The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services’ Office of Head Start congratulates the students of Class II and extends sincere appreciation to all parents, guardians, teachers, and staff members who have played a role in their success.

Best wishes to our graduates as they turn the page to a new chapter filled with learning, discovery, and endless possibilities! ✨📚❤️

04/06/2026

🎉📚 Ready for the Next Adventure! 📚🎉

Smiles, songs, proud moments, and plenty of applause filled the room on Thursday, June 4, as Frederiksted Head Start celebrated the promotional exercises of Class III, taught by Frances Ferrol; Class IX, taught by Melinda Niles; and Class X, taught by Laurie-Lee Roberts.

The ceremony highlighted a year of discovery, creativity, friendship, and learning for these young students. Through classroom activities, hands-on experiences, and the guidance of their dedicated teachers, each child has grown academically, socially, and emotionally, building a strong foundation for future success.

As they take this exciting next step, we celebrate not only what they have accomplished, but also the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. We thank the teachers, families, and staff whose encouragement and support have helped make this milestone possible.

Congratulations to the students of Class III, Class IX, and Class X! May your curiosity continue to grow, your confidence continue to shine, and your love of learning lead you to great things. 🌟🎓

04/06/2026

The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services proudly celebrates our 2026 Employee of the Year for the St. Thomas/St. John District, Yvette C. Henry!

Yvette was officially honored during the 2026 Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony held today at Government House on St. Thomas.

Ms. Henry works tirelessly to strengthen the connection between DHS staff and the community, helping to keep residents informed about vital DHS programs and services. In addition to her daily impact, she serves as the Department’s Emergency Support Function #6 (ESF #6) Emergency Disaster Lead, coordinating critical mass care with FEMA and VITEMA, including shelter support for individuals and families during times of emergency and disaster. Her leadership, resilience, and deep passion for service make her an invaluable part of the DHS family.

Joining Yvette to celebrate this well-deserved milestone at today's ceremony were VIDHS Commissioner Averil George, Assistant Commissioner Carla Benjamin, Deputy Commissioner of Human Resources and Labor Relations Rolda Mason and Marion Hewitt.

03/06/2026

🎓🌟 Celebrating Another Milestone at Frederiksted Head Start! 🌟🎓

On Wednesday, June 3, the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services’ Office of Head Start proudly celebrated the promotional exercises of Class I, led by Teacher Alicia Luke, and Class IV, led by Teacher Christine Daniel, at Frederiksted Head Start on St. Croix.

The special occasion recognized the growth, learning, and accomplishments of our young scholars as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their educational journey. Surrounded by proud parents, family members, teachers, and staff, the students showcased the confidence, knowledge, and enthusiasm they have developed throughout the school year.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of the students on this important achievement and thank our dedicated teachers, support staff, and families for their unwavering commitment to helping our children thrive.

Congratulations, Class I and Class IV! Continue to dream big, learn boldly, and shine brightly as you move forward toward kindergarten and beyond. 🎉📚✨

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services proudly celebrates our 2026 Employee of the Year, (STX District) Maria Colon-Clarke, Office Manager at the Herbert Grigg Home for the Aged, who was honored during the 2026 Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony held on June 2 at Government House on St. Croix.

Maria joined fellow honorees representing government departments and agencies across the Territory as their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service were recognized and celebrated.

Her unwavering support of the residents, staff, and operations of the Herbert Grigg Home for the Aged exemplifies the spirit of service that defines the Department of Human Services. We are proud to have Maria represent VIDHS among the Territory’s outstanding public servants.

Joining Maria for the occasion were VIDHS Commissioner Averil George, Assistant Commissioner Taetia Phillips-Dorsett, and Ana Velez-Martinez, Director of Residential Services at the Herbert Grigg Home for the Aged, who were on hand to celebrate this outstanding achievement.

Please join us in congratulating Maria Colon-Clarke on this well-deserved recognition and thanking all government employees whose hard work helps strengthen our communities every day.