For many seniors living in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the cost of managing chronic illness can be overwhelming. A new initiative by Patient Assist VI, a local nonprofit, is working to change that.
Founded in 2012, PAVI helps uninsured and underinsured Virgin Islands residents access life-saving prescription medications. The organization partners with local pharmacies, healthcare providers and national assistance programs to ensure that residents do not have to choose between affording their medication and meeting basic needs like rent or food.
In late 2023, PAVI launched a program focused on supporting seniors enrolled in Medicare Part D. The initiative covers up to 50 percent of annual deductibles, co-pays for chronic illness medications, and prescription costs not covered by Medicare. As of mid-2025, the program has already helped more than 120 seniors across St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.
“I’m a retired senior on a fixed income,” said Avery Leonard, 72. “When I found out I had to pay over $500 out-of-pocket just to get my Eliquis, I was overwhelmed. PAVI stepped in and made sure I got what I needed. I’m so grateful.”
The initiative is part of a broader mission to remove financial barriers to healthcare for the most vulnerable residents in the territory.
To support the effort, PAVI has launched a community campaign called “Pledge $30 to Power 3 Months of Health.” The campaign, which began in July in recognition of Chronic Illness Awareness Month, runs through the end of 2025. A $30 donation provides 90 days of medication for one patient in need. Donations can be made online at www.patientassistvi.org, and the campaign is being promoted through pop-up wellness events and social media outreach.
PAVI credits much of its success to key community partners and funders. Local pharmacy collaborators include Chelsea Drug Store, Drug Farm Pharmacy 2, The Medicine Shoppe and Kmart Pharmacy, as well as Diamond Pharmacy in St. Croix. Funding for the Medicare support program is provided through private donations, federal grants and local philanthropic support, including assistance from the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands.
As part of ongoing fundraising efforts, Patient Assist VI will be the featured nonprofit beneficiary at Taphus’s First Friday event on Friday, Aug. 1.
The organization is also calling on community members to get involved by donating, referring eligible patients or spreading awareness. Health care providers and residents can refer patients directly through the PAVI website.
“Our goal is to make Patient Assist VI a trusted household name,” the organization said in a statement. “Everyone deserves access to the medications they need to live a healthy life.”
For more information or to donate, visit www.patientassistvi.org.
