Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States 
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES 
 
Press Contact: 
Ryan Nugent 
Director of Communications  
Phone: (340) 718-2980 
ryan.nugent@dhs.vi.gov 
 
For Immediate Release: July. 28. 2026 
 
TEMPORARY CLOSURE: DHS Division of Family Assistance, Certification Unit 
[SNAP, CASH, LIHEAP (ECAP)] Hosts Territorial Staff Training  
 
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (VIDHS), 
Division of Family Assistance announces a temporary closure of the Certification Unit 
territory-wide on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 8:00AM to 1:00 PM for St. Croix and 
8:00 to 5:00 on St. Thomas. The temporary closure is due to scheduled staff training 
and development.  
 
This temporary closure is essential to facilitate focused training methodologies aimed at 
new mandates that will enhance the SNAP process.  The training will also address 
improvements in processes related to streamlined operations; new Federal guidelines & 
policy updates; and maintaining the highest standards of service delivery.  
 
The VI Department of Human Services apologizes for any inconvenience.  For any 
inquiries or further information prior to the closure, please contact the Division of Family 
Assistance, Certification Unit, St. Croix District at (340) 772-7100, Ext. 7195 or St. 
Thomas/St. John District (340) 774-0930, Ext. 4377. 
 
Forms and other applicable documents will also be available in the Lobby/Waiting Rooms 
and on the DHS website.  Individuals can continue using the designated E-Mail address 
for SNAP – the St. Croix District at certoffice.stx@dhs.vi.gov, and the St. Thomas/St. John 
District at certoffice.stt@dhs.vi.gov.  Phone service will not be available on the date and 
time of the training (8:00AM – 5:00PM). Normal business operation will resume on 
Monday, July 27, 2026, at 8:00AM promptly. 
 
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.  
 
 
P 
R 
E 
S 
S 
R 
E 
L 
E 
A 
S 
E