The East End/Long Look Community Centre was officially been handed on October 18, 2024, seven years after being destroyed following Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Photo: Facebook

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) encouraged residents of East End and Long Look to use the new community centre which was handed over on October 18, 2024, wisely. Photo: Facebook

The East End/Long Look Community Centre which was officially handed over on October 18, 2024, will serve residents of the Seventh and Eighth District. Photo: Facebook

The ceremony took place on Friday, October 18, 2024, where Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) encouraged residents to use the new community centre wisely.

The centre will serve residents of the Seventh and Eighth District. “This centre is your space, your place to gather, to connect, and celebrate,” he told them.

Community centres according to Hon Wheatley said have been an integral part of the Virgin Islands’ culture for many years, serving as a meeting space for various functions and community events.

Equally important, he added, community centres play a critical role as emergency shelters during natural disasters and so residents must be vigilant in ensuring its proper upkeep.

“I strongly encourage you to make the most of this facility, use it to build and strengthen your communities. This is your asset, a place to connect and grow and support each other. While the government will continue to do its part to maintain and care for the centre, we rely on you to use it responsibly,” Hon Wheatley stated.

Community centre rebuilt resiliently

Hon Wheatley said the government is happy to finally deliver on this promise which is finally completed after having started in June 2023.

The East End/Long Look Community Centre is the sixth one restored and handed over. These projects were made possible through support of the European Union (EU) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

“In alignment with PAHO’s smart standards we have ensured that East End/Long Look Community Centre was rehabilitated to a standard where it is resilient and environmentally sustainable just like the other restored centres,” Hon Wheatley stated.

Hon Wheatley said his ministry remains committed to rehabilitating all community centres to a high standard, ensuring they are better prepared to withstand future shocks and meets and caters to the needs of the differently abled population including seniors.