A joyful Mr. Lealdo Thomas was appreciative to the Ministry of Health and Social Development as he became the latest recipient of a social home.

Mr. Thomas and his wife expressed gratitude to the Housing Unit team at the Ministry of Health for their efforts in helping them secure what they described as their retirement gift.

Mr. Thomas said, “I appreciate everyone for their assistance and I am happy the wait has come to an end right now. I give the father thanks for blessing me with this gift.”

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley said he was pleased that the Thomas family now has proper housing after being impacted by Hurricane Irma.

Honourable Wheatley said, “I want to thank the contractor and the team at the Ministry for their commitment in making this happens. As long as the funding is available, we at the Ministry are committed to making sure many people are relocated into these beautiful homes.”

Meanwhile, Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, in his capacity as Seventh District Representative, offered congratulations to the Thomas family for becoming a new homeowner. The Premier acknowledged the struggles the family faced regarding the hurricane, COVID-19 and other health related issues.

“This social home was well needed and deserved,” Premier Wheatley said, adding, “It took some time but we are very happy it is now completed. As District Representative, I feel good to know that Mr. Lealdo has been taken care of and as he said, this is his retirement gift. I wish him and his family peace and love as they enjoy this beautiful home.”

Contractor Mr. Ronnie Lettsome from Trojan Design and Development Ltd. said a lot of effort went into the creation of the house and he hopes the recipients enjoy their new home.

Project Manager Mr. Marquese Maduro also thanked the team at the Ministry for its continued work on the Housing Recovery Assistance Programme.

Mr. Maduro said, "This social home is very special because of the situation with Mr. Thomas and his wife since the hurricanes and the pandemic. I would like to congratulate Mr. Lettsome and his representatives for a very good job. The house is flawless and the view is even prettier.”

More than 27 homes have been built and over 200 repaired since the inception of the Housing Recovery Assistance Programme.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to improving the health and well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands.