The Government of the Virgin Islands has increased Public Assistance Grants to vulnerable residents, Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) revealed. Photo: HoA/YouTube

Public Assistance Grants are distributed by the Social Development Department of the Minister of Health and Social Development. Photo: Internet Source

“I am pleased to serve this Honourable House on an important and timely matter—the revision of Public Assistance Grant amounts under the Public Assistance Programme,” he told members. 

According to Minister Wheatley, “This Government is acutely aware of the increasing financial pressure facing many families, particularly those most vulnerable in our society.”

He, as such, disclosed that on February 5, 2025, the Cabinet approved substantial adjustments to the grant amounts to better reflect the real cost of essentials. 

“The approved adjustments ensure that Public Assistance Grants are directly tied to the actual cost of essential needs, creating a more substantial and impactful support system for our most vulnerable residents.”

Increases detailed; amounting to over $1M annually 

Minister Wheatley detailed the new grant amounts, across all categories including:

• Single-person households: Increased from $200 to $320
• Two-person households: Increased from $255 to $485
• Three-person households: Increased from $340 to $674
• Four-person households: Increased from $360 to $876
• Five-person households: Increased from $375 to $1,000
• Persons with disabilities: Increased from $225 to $495
• Elderly recipients: Increased from $337 to $506.25

With this in mind, he proffered, “We deeply appreciate the patience and understanding of our present clientele as we implement these increases.” 

According to the Minister, eligible recipients will receive a partial increase in early March, reflecting the difference between the old and new amounts, with the full increase applied at the end of March.

The estimated annual cost of these adjustments is $1,722,732.00 reflecting the government’s commitment to a meaningful yet fiscally responsible approach to social assistance.

Interim Measures 

Meanwhile, Minister Wheatley also divulged that while amendments to the Public Assistance Amendment Act have already been approved, the full implementation is pending the finalisation of necessary regulations.

He noted nonetheless that given the urgent economic realities facing many residents, the government has opted to implement the increased grant amounts immediately as an interim measure, rather than waiting for the legislative process to be completed.

This, he said, “Ensures that no one is left waiting for relief while the legislative process continues.”

Oversight & Sustainability

To ensure accountability and effectiveness, the Social Development Department will monitor the impact of the revised grant amounts and provide periodic updates to the Ministry, which will, in turn, report to the Cabinet. 

“This will allow for continued oversight, accountability, and responsiveness to the evolving needs of our population,” he said.

Addressing concerns about sustainability, he emphasised that the increases are not arbitrary but based on a data-driven approach aligning with real-world costs. 

Minister Wheatley also used the occasion to reaffirm the government’s dedication to ensuring that public assistance is more than just financial aid, “It is about ensuring dignity, stability, and hope for our most vulnerable citizens; We will continue to take decisive and compassionate action to uphold the well-being of our people and ensure that no one is left behind.”