VIHFA Having Difficulty Transitioning People From Emergency Homes: "We Get backlash All Over"

Officials from the V.I. Housing Finance Authority have assured lawmakers that they are working diligently to make emergency housing available to those who need it most. VIHFA representatives were responding to concerns raised by senators on the Committee on Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications, which met on Wednesday.

“It's my understanding that we have individuals in emergency housing in the territory since Hurricane Hugo,” said Senator Donna Frett-Gregory.

The Virgin Islands, like several stateside communities, is facing a housing crisis, with hundreds of residents on waitlists for public housing. Against this backdrop, Frett-Gregory asked, “can it be emergency housing if people are allowed to live in those … temporary homes forever?”

The lawmaker also asked for clarity on the length of time a family or individual was allowed to remain in emergency housing, and whether VIHFA was responsible for helping them move into their own home. Stephanie Berry, VIHFA’s chief operating officer confirmed that they are “attempting to address the issues.”