USVI Wellness Fair Thrives Amid High Turnout, Residents Grateful

The USVI Wellness Fair, now approaching its one-week mark, has been met with enthusiastic approval from residents across the territory. Many attendees, despite facing long waits and the necessity to return on multiple days, expressed gratitude for the comprehensive, no-cost medical services provided.

The overwhelming turnout led to extended wait times, but the free services made the wait worthwhile. “I came on Tuesday but had to return today because there were so many people. Today, I finally got everything done. It was a very good day for me,” said one resident, who received treatment on Thursday. The fair, hosted by military healthcare professionals from the U.S. Department of Defense Innovative Readiness Training Program, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor and the V.I. Department of Health, offered dental and optometry care, medical screenings, pediatric physicals, and mental wellness checks.

Given the large number of attendees, some residents experienced significant delays. “Yesterday, I arrived at 8:00 a.m. and left at 4:00 p.m. due to confusion from people sent home the day before because of a power outage. Overall, I can’t complain and received the information I needed,” a senior resident recounted. Assisted by event officials with a wheelchair and escorted to her car, she highlighted the excellent care she received for her eye issues, which local doctors had previously struggled to diagnose. The fair’s healthcare professionals provided clarity and promised to mail her prescription glasses free of charge.

While some found the repeated visits frustrating, others praised the organization and the quality of care. “They have everything organized,” one resident remarked. “My experience was excellent.”

For many, the fair offered a much-needed reprieve amidst other challenges faced by the community. “It’s something good they’re doing for the people, especially since things are tough on the island,” noted one Crucian. Another attendee added, “It’s a serious effort by the governor to do something nice for us, considering all the problems we face here.”

The wellness fair is located at the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School gymnasium on St. Thomas and the Educational Complex school gymnasium on St. Croix, with pediatric services available at the Department of Health’s maternal and child health clinics. The event, which began on June 1st, will continue through Sunday.