On Sept. 8, the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Senior Citizens Affairs held an event celebrating the reopening of the Richmond Senior Center. Under the guidance of the Department of Health to reduce the transmission of the COVID-19 virus, DHS closed the Richmond Senior Center and discontinued socio-recreational activities for seniors in 2020.
DHS Commissioner Kimberley Causey-Gomez shared that during the closure of the center, the Division of Senior Citizens Affairs staff, public and private partners, and volunteers worked tirelessly to renovate the building.
With donations of materials and services from businesses such as Home Depot and Gallows Bay Hardware, and volunteerism from groups like Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, the building’s restrooms were renovated, and the entire building was repainted in vibrant colors, among other upgrades.
Causey-Gomez said, “We are thankful for our local partners who care about our community and especially our senior population. This shows that our motto, ‘Working Together to Make a Difference’ truly stands in the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
DHS Assistant Commissioner Michal Rhymer-Browne, who has oversight over the Division of Senior Citizens Affairs, welcomed the seniors in attendance back to their homes. “The Department of Human Services, along with our community partners, performed the upgrades to this building so that you can enjoy it in your golden years — because you deserve it.”
The reopening event featured music by Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights, DJ music by Darren “Bogle” Stevens, and a dance number by dance group Kaiso.
The Department of Human Services exists to provide social services to members in our community with diverse needs. In times of national uncertainty and hardship, we act as a safety net and exist to inspire hope and empower change through non-judgmental, quality delivery of needed services and resources. For general information, visit the DHS website at www.dhs.gov.vi or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/usvidhs).
