Virgin Partners for Healthy Communities

Utilizing an evidence based comprehensive approach, the program continues to reduce risk factors with vipi enrollees through vigorous promotion of lifestyle improvements and optimizing self advocacy skills. Vipi is an active member of the vidoh chronic disease advisory committee and staff participate in trainings and health disparities conferences. The program continued to strenghen partnerships with specialists such as cardiologists, neurologists, physical/behavior therapists and neonatalogists to connect clients with a comprehensive care plan involving, case management, referral, health education and spanish/patois interpretation. Client specific treatment plans remain essential componenents of service delivery.

The organization partnered with the frederiksted health center to disperse hiv self-testing kits to local residents most at risk of hiv infection. The overall goal is to end the hiv epidemic by 2030 through developing partnerships with local and national health departments. Community outreach specialists were assigned to distribute 200 hiv testing kits at strategic locations and provide brochures and hiv education.

Vipi provided emergency financial assistance to 24 low income individuals through funding from the community foundation. Urgent needs included lab work, newborn items, appliances, houshold items, utility bills, rent, vehicle repairs and other various needs. Vipi continued involvement in the recovery efforts from hurricanes irma and maria. Through a coordinated inclusive approach with partner agencies and funding from the unmet needs roundtable complete repair was provided for two families whose homes were severly damaged. Eligibilty for assistance is based on need and income level.