Your VIDHS Episode 8 - Sheltering & Mass Care

Welcome to Episode 8 of "Your VIDHS," the official podcast of the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services! In this episode, our host Ryan Nugent sits down with special guests Yvette Henry and Abigail Hendricks to dive into the critical topic of Sheltering and Mass Care.

Join us as we explore the strategies, challenges, and best practices for providing shelter and care to our community during emergencies. Yvette Henry, VIDHS Mass Care Lead, and Abigail Hendricks, St. John ESF-6 Coordinator, share their insights and experiences in managing emergency shelter operations, ensuring safety, and maintaining compassion in times of crisis.

Your VIDHS - Episode 8: Sheltering & Mass Care

*Host:* Ryan Nugent

*Guests:*
- Yvette Henry, Community Coordinator and Mass Care Lead for the USVI Department of Human Services (DHS) ESF6
- Abigail Hendricks, ESF6 Coordinator on St. John and St. John's Section Planning Chief

*Topic:* Emergency Sheltering and Mass Care in the US Virgin Islands

Key Points:

Introduction
- *Importance of Preparation:* As June approaches, the USVI prepares for storm season. This episode focuses on emergency sheltering and mass care, a critical function of the Department of Human Services (DHS).

What is Mass Care?
- *Definition:* Mass care involves setting up congregate shelters for residents and distributing food and other life support items post-disaster.
- *Scope:* Mass care covers all disasters, not just hurricanes.

Shelter Identification and Preparation
- *Inspection Process:* DHS, with support from agencies like the Department of Education, American Red Cross, and police, inspects and identifies shelters across the territory.
- *Locations:*
- *St. Croix:* Educational Complex (1,800+ capacity), DC Canegator (161 capacity)
- *St. Thomas:* Ivana Yedora Ken High School (7,800 capacity), Lockhart Elementary and Junior High (248 capacity, expandable)
- *St. John:* Adrian Senior Center, Gift Hill School (175 total capacity)
- *Water Island:* Currently no operational shelters due to repairs.

Community and Animal Care
- *Community Support:* Emphasis on pre-storm preparation and community support.
- *Animal Shelters:* Identified shelters in St. Croix and St. Thomas for pets, with specific instructions for pet owners.
- *St. John:* Canine Cats and Critters offers temporary pet housing during storms.

Emergency Preparedness
- *Household Preparation:* Families should discuss plans, shore up homes, and stock up on non-perishable items for up to 10 days.
- *Document Safety:* Importance of photographing important documents and properties, and storing them digitally.
- *Generator Maintenance:* Ensure generators are serviced and operational.

The Role of DHS
- *Sheltering Role:* DHS manages emergency shelters with support from the Red Cross and other agencies.
- *All Hazards Department:* DHS is essential for various disaster responses, including hurricanes, floods, and more.

Donations and Assistance
- *Preferred Donations:* Monetary donations are preferred over items to better meet specific needs.
- *All Hazard Response:* DHS's involvement in the St. Croix water crisis showcases its all-hazard capabilities.

Preparing for Shelter
- *Go Bags:* Recommended items include clothing, flashlights, batteries, blankets, and personal medications.
- *Shelter Etiquette:* Guidelines for bringing personal comfort items and caring for pets.

Senior Disaster Registry
- *Act 8058:* This act supports the Senior Disaster Registry, aiding seniors and disabled individuals with information and assistance during disasters.
- *Registration Locations:* Applications available at BMV and the election system of the Virgin Islands.

Final Advice
- *Preparedness:* Encouraging the community to prepare early and stay informed through reliable sources.
- *Community Spirit:* Emphasis on supporting each other and ensuring everyone's safety during storm seasons.

Contact and Additional Resources
- *Department of Human Services (DHS):* For more information and resources related to emergency sheltering and mass care.

*Listen to the full episode for more detailed information and tips on preparing for the storm season in the US Virgin Islands.*