USVI Community Pulse
HUD Allocates $1.5 Million for HIV/AIDS Housing Initiatives in the U.S. Virgin Islands

In a significant initiative aimed at enhancing housing options for individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of HIV/AIDS Housing has granted $1,510,082 to a local non-profit organization, Meeting the Needs of Our Community Inc.
This financial backing is a segment of the broader Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Renewal and Replacement Grant. This disbursement is part of an expansive plan that allocates almost $30 million across the United States. These funds assist in various housing-related endeavors, including tenant-oriented rental aid, supportive services, and other essential housing activities. The current announcement serves as the first of two planned rounds of grant allocations.
Speaking on the matter, HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge articulated the critical importance of this funding, stating, “Secure, consistent, and affordable housing is a vital factor in determining health outcomes.” She continued by emphasizing HUD’s commitment to eradicating prejudice against HIV-affected individuals, expanding the availability of specialized housing and services, and, crucially, mitigating the stigma associated with the ailment.
Deputy Regional Administrator Tiffany Cobb offered insights into the broader societal issues confronting those with HIV. She highlighted that the existing grant aims to “guarantee not only the availability of safe and economical housing but also access to indispensable resources and services for those living with HIV in the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
Numerous studies validate the essential role that stable housing plays in the wellness of individuals living with HIV. Stable living conditions contribute to improved health metrics, including effective viral control. It is noteworthy that when the viral load is untraceable, transmission risks drop to zero. Apart from offering housing solutions, the grant funding will facilitate access to crucial services, including case management, mental health support, prevention of substance abuse, and job skill training. This blend of housing and supportive services is instrumental in promoting residential stability, bettering health outcomes, and enhancing the quality of life. It also helps those prepared to transition to the private housing sector.
Since launching in 1992, HUD’s HOPWA Program has been a national cornerstone, delivering essential resources that have significantly impacted the development and management of top-quality supportive housing programs. Through the HOPWA initiative, HUD extends financial support to municipalities, states, and not-for-profit organizations, empowering them to offer housing aid and essential services to low-income individuals and families affected by HIV. With its primary mission of providing stable housing, ensuring consistent medical treatment, and aiding complex therapy plans, the HOPWA program exemplifies HUD’s enduring commitment. For more information on the HOPWA program, visit HUD Exchange.
USVI Community Pulse
New Parking Fee at Fort Christianvaern Starting Dec. 11

Beginning December 11, visitors to Fort Christiansvaern in Christiansted, St. Croix, will need to pay a $10 daily parking fee, as announced by the National Park Service (NPS). This new automated payment system, located at the parking lot’s entrance, will facilitate payments exclusively via debit and credit cards, as cash transactions will not be available.
The NPS has implemented this fee to generate additional revenue, aimed at enhancing the overall experience for visitors. The funds collected will be strategically invested in improving the park’s facilities and infrastructure, contributing to a more enjoyable and well-maintained environment for all guests.
Parking will be available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. To ensure the safety and proper use of the parking lot, vehicles left after 5:00 p.m. may be towed at the owner’s expense, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the stipulated hours.
The NPS encourages the continued use of the parking lot at the Christiansted Historical site, highlighting its safety and convenience for both town and park visitors. They anticipate positive public cooperation with these changes.
For further inquiries or to address any concerns, individuals can contact Chief Ranger Gabriel Laurencin at [email protected] or call 340-773-1460 for assistance.
USVI Community Pulse
St. Croix Prepares for Dazzling Christmas Boat Parade with Parking and Traffic Regulations

The picturesque island of St. Croix is abuzz with excitement as it gears up for the much-anticipated annual Christmas Boat Parade on Saturday, December 9. This festive highlight draws crowds to Christiansted’s scenic boardwalk, prompting the V.I. Police Department to enforce specific parking restrictions and road closures for a seamless event experience.
Key measures implemented by the VIPD in preparation for the parade, a cornerstone of St. Croix’s holiday celebrations, include:
- A parking ban on Queen Cross Street, from Riddims to the Caravelle Casino, effective 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight). This measure is essential for vendor setup and smooth parade preparations.
- King Street will also be subject to a no-parking policy from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight). This restriction encompasses the stretch from Florence Williams Library to Government House and includes the vicinity from Strand Lane (Purple Papaya) to King Street.
To ensure public safety and efficient traffic management, roadblocks will be in place at the intersection of King Street and King Cross Street (near the Library), commencing at 11:00 a.m. and lasting until midnight. Access during this time will be limited to vendors and officials associated with the Boat Parade Committee.
The Christmas Boat Parade is an iconic tradition in St. Croix, attracting thousands to the Christiansted boardwalk for a magical evening. The event is renowned for its display of intricately decorated boats, illuminating the night with festive lights, culminating in a stunning fireworks show.
The VIPD extends its gratitude to the community for cooperating with these traffic and parking arrangements, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring a safe, enjoyable holiday experience for all attendees.
USVI Community Pulse
Ford Initiates Major Recall of Over 45,000 Vehicles Due to Door Latch Concerns

Ford Motor Company has begun issuing notices to owners of select models, specifically the 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and the 2016 Lincoln MKZ, regarding a critical safety issue identified in these vehicles.
The company disclosed in mid-November the discovery of a defect in the door latches of certain vehicles. The defect involves a latch component that may break, potentially making the door difficult to secure or, in some cases, allowing it to open unexpectedly during travel.
Notably, some of these vehicles are known to have been sold and registered in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
In response, Ford dealerships are conducting thorough inspections of the door latches on affected vehicles, with a directive to replace all four side door latches at no cost to the vehicle owner if they find any issues.
Vehicle owners who prefer immediate action rather than waiting for postal notifications can access further information by reaching out to Ford’s customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or contacting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
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