Farmers and fishers across the Virgin Islands will soon receive free emergency preparedness kits through a partnership between Virgin Islands Good Food and Mercy Corps, a global nonprofit focused on disaster resilience.
“Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible. In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, they partner to put bold solutions into action, helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within,” according to Mercy Corps’ website.
The distribution of these emergency preparedness kits is the latest effort by Virgin Islands Good Food to support farmers and fishers in strengthening their resilience in the face of natural disasters and other emergencies. Sommer Sibilly-Brown, founder of Virgin Islands Good Food, believes that proactive efforts in supporting local farmers and fishers are a measure that benefits the entire community.
“Our farmers and fishers are on the front lines of food security in the Virgin Islands. When a storm hits or emergency arises, the impact on our food producers can be catastrophic. These kits are about giving them a safety net, so they can recover and continue feeding our community,” Sibilly-Brown said.
Virgin Islands Good Food was founded with the mission of creating a stronger and more sustainable food system in the Virgin Islands through partnering with industry stakeholders and community-based advocacy. “Collaboration is key, by working with Mercy Corps and other programs, we are able to bring real resources directly to the territory and into the hands of those who need them most. It is an investment in both our food system and our people,” Sibilly-Brown said.
Each customizable emergency kit includes critical supplies needed in the aftermath of natural disasters and can include water filtration systems, solar phone chargers, hand tools, tarps, chain saws, radios, and seeds for crop recovery.
Kits are limited to 13 recipients across the territory, with St. Thomas allotted kits for four farmers and one fisher, St. John allotted kits for two farmers and one fisher, and St. Croix allotted kits for four farmers and one fisher.
Interested applicants are encouraged to schedule an eligibility call as soon as possible. Applications can be submitted by clicking here. For more information, contact Virgin Islands Good Food at 340-727-6592.
“Our ultimate goal is a resilient food system, one that not only survives emergencies but thrives beyond them,” Sibilly-Brown said.
For more information about Virgin Islands Good Food and its programs, visit www.goodfoodvi.org.
