The American Red Cross of the U.S. Virgin Islands is marking Red Cross Month this March, continuing a national tradition that began in 1943 with a presidential proclamation. The monthlong observance highlights the dedication of volunteers who provide relief and support during emergencies.
“The month of March is a special time for the Red Cross, especially here in USVI,” said Tina Beazer, executive director of the American Red Cross of the U.S. Virgin Islands. “We are fortunate to celebrate both Red Cross Month and Virgin Islands History Month simultaneously, and we proudly recognize the individuals who represent the best of humanity by stepping up to care for our neighbors in times of crisis.”
With more than a century of service in the territory, the Red Cross of the U.S. Virgin Islands traces its roots to 1904, when the islands were still under Danish rule. The first local chapter, originally known as the Santa Cruz Chapter, was chartered on Dec. 12, 1917, following the transfer of the islands to the United States. In 1963, it was renamed the St. Croix Chapter. A separate chapter for St. Thomas and St. John was established on May 9, 1918, expanding services across the territory, according to the press release.
In 1920, a group of social workers, librarians, and nurses from the American Red Cross traveled from the mainland to the newly acquired U.S. Virgin Islands, leading to the introduction of nursing programs in local schools and the establishment of the St. Thomas Public Library, which remains in operation today, the press release stated.
Disaster relief efforts began in earnest after Hurricane Gale struck the territory on Aug. 28, 1924, causing significant damage, particularly on St. John, and resulting in at least 100 casualties. In response, the Red Cross expanded its work beyond disaster relief to include emergency preparedness initiatives aimed at strengthening community resilience, the release stated.
More recently, the Red Cross played a crucial role in disaster response after hurricanes Irma and Maria, both Category 5 storms, devastated the islands in September 2017. With widespread power outages and communication failures, Red Cross teams provided emergency shelter, food, emotional support, and recovery assistance, including generators and cleanup kits for those in need, it said.
In August 2023, a Red Cross team from the mainland deployed to St. Croix in anticipation of Tropical Storm Ernesto. While the storm ultimately impacted Puerto Rico more significantly, the readiness efforts underscored the organization’s commitment to disaster preparedness in the region, according to the release.
Today, the Red Cross of the U.S. Virgin Islands continues its mission by promoting national programs such as the Home Fire Campaign, Youth Disaster Preparedness, and Be Red Cross Ready. This March, Red Cross workers will collaborate with the Virgin Islands Fire Service and community organizations to install free smoke alarms in homes across St. Croix and St. Thomas, the release stated.
Volunteers remain the backbone of the Red Cross, making up more than 90% of its workforce in the territory. “Our need for volunteers is constant,” Beazer said. “New volunteers can expect to gain expertise that will be useful in day-to-day life while also helping their community.”
Additionally, neighbors can support the Red Cross by participating in Giving Day on March 26, an annual fundraising effort during Red Cross Month. Donations help provide emergency shelter, food, relief supplies, basic health care, and financial assistance to those affected by disasters. Visit redcross.org/GivingDay to make a donation, release stated.
The American Red Cross of the U.S. Virgin Islands has offices on St. Croix and St. Thomas, serving St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island. Those interested in joining can apply at redcross.org/usvi or call 340-778-5104 for St. Croix or 340-774-0375 for St. Thomas, it said.
More information is available at redcross.org/USVI or facebook.com/RedCrossUSVI.
