ST. CROIX SUN NEWS: LIFE-SAFETY UPDATE Text-to-911 Training Heads to Frederiksted: A Vital Link for the Deaf Community
GETTING ORGANIZED: While the high-gloss awards are handed out in St. Thomas, the real work of life-safety coordination happens on the ground. Officials from the Governor’s ADA Office, VITEMA, and the Disability Rights Center meet to finalize Text-to-911 training for St. Croix’s Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. In a territory on "auto-pilot," these are the rare gears that are actually turning for the people. 📱⚖️
FREDERIKSTED — In a territory where communication between government agencies often seems non-existent, a critical emergency link is being reinforced for those who need it most.
The Office of the Governor’s ADA Coordinator, in partnership with VITEMA and the Disability Rights Center of the Virgin Islands (DRCVI), has announced that Text-to-911 training will continue on St. Croix this month. The session is specifically designed for residents who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities, ensuring they can reach emergency services when a voice call is impossible.
The Details for the Sunshine Mall event:
When: Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Where: DRCVI Office (Near the former Kmart), Frederiksted.
Support: ASL interpretation will be provided, and transportation assistance is available for members of the Deaf community.
Our Take: While the higher-ups are busy exchanging awards and "ceremonial" titles, this is a rare instance of a program that actually serves the people on the ground. Being able to text 911 isn't just a convenience; it is a lifeline in a territory that often struggles with basic coordination.
Action Required: If you need specific accommodations, the deadline to request them is March 17. Contact the ADA Coordinator’s office at 340-473-1848 to ensure you aren't left out of the loop
