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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: May 22, 2023 VIDHS ASKS ST. JOHN RESIDENTS TO PRE-REGISTER FOR EMERGENCY SHELTERS AHEAD OF 2023 HURRICANE SEASON U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - As we closely approach the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS) is encouraging residents on the island of St. John to pre- register if they plan to utilize an evacuation shelter during a disaster related event. DHS says pre-registration for emergency shelter services is especially helpful for residents on the island with special needs, seniors, and those without transportation that require extra attention to stay safe during a tropical storm or hurricane. In statement to the press, Commissioner Kimberley Causey-Gomez explained, “Pre-registering will ensure you have a back-up plan. Oftentimes, emergencies or natural disasters can go from bad to worse in a very short time’” said the Commissioner. She stated “When a storm is approaching, sheltering in place should be the first plan of action, however If you are unable to shelter in place, and you are pre-registered with DHS, it means our staff as well as other agencies will already have your medical information, and individual special accommodations in place prior to Storm. Pre-registration also assists medical staff in making sure the proper equipment is online and transportation to and from the shelter is provided” said Commissioner Causey- Gomez. If you are a St. John resident or a community agency who works with vulnerable populations in St. John, DHS is requesting a pre-registration of those individuals and families who may need to go to an evacuation shelter during a disaster. Please contact Ms. Abigail Hendriks at (340) 776-6144 to coordinate the pre- registration. For more information, please visit the Department of Human Services website, www.dhs.gov.vi or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/usvidhs) at US Virgin Islands Department of Human Services. 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. 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. ## END## P R E S S R E L E A S E