PRESS RELEASE 
For Immediate Release: January 25, 2024 
DHS Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services Announces Quality 
Improvement Mini Grants for Licensed Childcare Providers 
 
(U.S. Virgin Islands)- The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, Office of Child Care 
and Regulatory Services, (OCCRS) is pleased to announce the availability of applications for 
the Quality Improvement Mini Grants for all licensed childcare providers. These grants aim 
to enhance the overall quality of childcare services and facilities, providing an opportunity for 
providers to access funding for various important aspects of their operations. Child Care 
providers can apply for these grants to procure: 
 
Outdoor Play Equipment, ensuring that children have access to safe and stimulating outdoor 
environments.  
 
Supplemental Energy sources, contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient 
childcare setting. 
 
Education & Training, another vital aspect, allowing providers to invest in professional 
development opportunities for their staff. This ensures that childcare providers stay abreast of 
the latest educational methodologies and best practices, ultimately benefiting the children 
under their care. 
 
Health & Safety, enabling childcare providers to implement measures that enhance the 
overall well-being and security of the children in their programs. 
 
Interested providers can access the grant applications through the VIDHS website, at 
http://www.dhs.gov.vi/ on the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services page.  
 
Alternatively, hard copies of the applications are available at our Office of Child Care and 
Regulatory Services locations, at the Knud Hansen Complex on St. Thomas and #129 Golden 
Rock on St. Croix. Should you have any questions or require assistance in the application 
process, feel free to reach out to the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services for guidance 
and support at (340)772-7147 on St. Croix or (340)774-0930 ext. 4180 or 4184 St. Thomas/St. 
John. 
 
The Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services (OCCRS) licenses and certifies all child care 
providers in the territory and provides support for quality improvement in all sectors, public 
and parochial. The office assists low-income working families or families entering the 
workforce by providing access to affordable, high-quality early care and after- school 
programs in the Virgin Islands via child care subsidies. 
 
Press Contact: 
Ryan Nugent 
Director of Communications 
Phone: (340) 725-4924 
ryan.nugent@dhs.vi.gov 
The Department of Human Services (VIDHS) exists to provide social services to members in 
our community with diverse needs. In times of national uncertainty and hardship we act as a 
safety-net and exist to inspire hope and empower change through non-judgmental, quality 
delivery of needed services and resources. Please visit the Department of Human Services 
website, www.dhs.gov.vi or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/usvidhs). 
 
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure, and future 
through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government, and 
ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov 
 
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Knud Hansen Complex Bldg. A • 1303 Hospital Ground • St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802 • (340) 774-0930  
3011 Golden Rock • Christiansted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands 00820 • (340) 718-2980