VIRGIN GORDA — The British Virgin Islands sustained widespread damage as a result of hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
The Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly and the Virgin Gorda Elderly Home—buildings that house the most vulnerable seniors and older persons in their communities—were badly damaged by the storms.
With financial help from the UK Department for International Development (DFID), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) undertook restoration works which have now been completed.
The works, that were done in just five months, included the installation of solar power supply systems on the roofs, which will reduce power consumption, new and improved bath facilities, restoration of access and interior ramps, improvement in the access to medicines, among others. Emphasis was put on making the renovations “smart”- not only safe, but also green and sustainable.
The restoration of the buildings was a priority for the government of the BVI, and the ceremonies on to reopen them, on 30 and 31 May 2018 were attended by high level official, such as the Minister of Health and Social Development and the Director of Disaster Management.
The government of the British Virgin Islands created a video to commemorate the reopening of the Elderly Homes: https://youtu.be/KB6JbcUicu8