Community Revitalization

Community Revitalization has been a cornerstone of our work since our inception amid the devastation of Hurricane Hugo more than 30 years ago. St. Croix Foundation’s community revitalization efforts center equity, help protect the environment, strengthen the local economy, improve health, and preserve the built environment to improve quality of life for those who call St. Croix and the U.S. Virgin Islands home.

A healthy economy improves quality of life, helps families thrive, and positions our community to persevere through crises. The Foundation has invested significant resources in fortifying the Territory’s small business infrastructure. In addition to creating the first business incubator in the Virgin Islands, our Intermediary Relending Program was responsible for the creation and expansion of over 60 small businesses, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to supporting and encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation. In the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the Foundation focused on economic development opportunities that could serve as models for holistic community development by simultaneously strengthening the economy and nurturing community resilience. The Farm Tienda Agriculture & Small Business Development initiative recognizes agriculture as an economic engine, supports farmers as key stakeholders in our economy, and strengthens the resiliency of our local food system. The Solar-Supported Community Center & Workforce Development project is a proven model for workforce development that can be dramatically expanded Territory-wide .

In 1995, St, Croix Foundation initiated a partnership with the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) that continues to this day. Since the inception of that partnership, the Foundation has supported the VIPD through several existing Funds that provide flexible funding for emerging needs and which include providing rent-free space for the Christiansted Bicycle Patrol Unit for over 20 years. The Foundation has invested almost $1 million dollars in grants to support VIPD special initiatives and programs. Importantly, the Foundation also funds community programs through our nonprofit partners which address the root causes and effects of inequity that create social conditions which perpetuate crime and violence.