The Government of the Virgin Islands has announced a significant increase in public assistance grants, with annual allocations of the increase to exceed $1.7 million.
The move, according to Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Vincent Wheatley, is aimed at alleviating financial pressures on vulnerable families across the territory.
Speaking during a recent session of the House of Assembly, Minister Wheatley reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that social assistance keeps pace with the real cost of living.
The updated public assistance structure includes specific increases for different household sizes, as well as additional support for individuals with disabilities and elderly residents.
Minister Wheatley detailed these adjustments, emphasizing that they were designed to provide more equitable support to those most in need.
The minister further outlined the timeline for implementing these increases, noting that while adjustments are being rolled out, the government remains committed to adapting social protection measures in response to evolving economic conditions.
Minister Wheatley underscored the importance of continuously monitoring and adjusting public assistance programs to ensure they remain effective and sustainable. He highlighted that a data-driven approach was used to align support levels with the real-world cost of living.
The announcement comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen social protection and improve the quality of life for residents facing financial hardships.