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Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Press Contact: Ryan Nugent Director of Communications Phone: (340) 725-4924 ryan.nugent@dhs.vi.gov For Immediate Release: April 4, 2024 VIDHS, Women's Coalition, and Community Partners Host 2024 Motorcade: Shining A Light on Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - VIDHS, in collaboration with the Women's Coalition, Family Resource Center, supported by the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, VI Department of Education, VI Department of Health, Tutu Park Mall, and various community agencies, invites all to join the 2024 Motorcade: Shining A Light of Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness. The event is scheduled to take place simultaneously on St. Thomas and St. Croix on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. The motorcades will assemble at Canegata Ball Park in Christiansted, St. Croix, and Emile Griffith Ball Park in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas simultaneous at 5:30 PM. This collaborative effort aims to raise awareness and advocate for the prevention of child abuse and sexual assault within the Virgin Islands community. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and community members, the event seeks to shed light on these critical issues and foster dialogue, support, and action towards creating safer environments for all children. "We are proud to unite with our community partners in this important initiative," said VIDHS Assistant Commissioner Carla Benjamin "Together, we can make a difference by standing up against child abuse and sexual assault, and by providing resources and support to those affected. This motorcade symbolizes our commitment to protecting our children and building a safer, more resilient community," said Benjamin. Participants are encouraged to join the motorcade procession, which will feature vehicles adorned with banners and messages of awareness. In line with the spirit of solidarity, attendees are invited to wear blue to show support for Child Abuse Awareness and teal for Sexual Assault Awareness. Additionally, informational materials and resources will be distributed to attendees, offering guidance on recognizing signs of abuse and accessing support services. "We believe that by coming together as a community, we can create a powerful force for change," VIDHS Commissioner Averil George. "This motorcade is not just about raising awareness; it's about taking a stand and actively working towards preventing child abuse and sexual assault. We urge everyone to join us in this important cause," Commissioner George concluded. The 2024 Motorcade: Shining A Light of Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness promises to be an impactful event, demonstrating the collective commitment of the Virgin Islands community to safeguarding the well-being of its children. All are welcome and encouraged to participate. The Department of Human Services (VIDHS) 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. Please visit the Department of Human Services website, www.dhs.gov.vi or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/usvidhs). The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure, and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government, and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov. P R E S S R E L E A S E