ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — New mothers and newborns across the Virgin Islands are set to receive additional support following the launch of a new Hampers for Mothers initiative and the relaunch of the long-standing Books for Babies programme at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital on Thursday.
The initiatives are the result of a collaborative effort between the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), the Rotary Club of Road Town, Walkers BVI and the BVI Reading Council. Together, the organisations aim to provide practical assistance to vulnerable mothers, promote early childhood literacy and strengthen family wellbeing throughout the Territory.
During a ceremony marking the occasion, hampers filled with essential items for newborns were formally presented to BVIHSA’s Social Services Department for distribution to mothers facing financial hardship. The first Books for Babies package was also handed to an expectant mother, symbolising the programme’s official return.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of BVIHSA and President of the Rotary Club of Road Town, Dr. June Samuel, said the initiatives highlight the impact that community partnerships can have on improving the lives of families.
Dr. Samuel explained that the Hampers for Mothers initiative was inspired by presentations delivered by nurses during Maternal and Child Health Month in 2025. Those presentations highlighted the challenges faced by some mothers who arrive at the hospital to give birth without basic necessities for their babies due to economic difficulties.
Moved by those concerns, the Rotary Club of Road Town committed to creating a programme that would provide direct support to mothers in need.
“The initiative is about ensuring that every mother has access to essential items for her newborn and feels supported during one of the most important moments in her life,” Dr. Samuel noted.
She also underscored the importance of reviving the Books for Babies programme, pointing to growing concerns about the impact of excessive screen time on children’s development and the need to cultivate a love of reading from an early age.
“There’s now a move to get our children and young people off devices and back into books because of the impact technology can have on cognitive development,” Dr. Samuel said.
The Books for Babies programme was first introduced in 2009 by veteran educator Mrs. H. Lynden Smith, affectionately known throughout the Territory as “Teacher Lynden.” Motivated by her passion for literacy and years of experience in the classroom, Mrs. Smith launched the initiative to encourage parents to begin reading to their children from infancy.
“Reading starts in the home, and beginning to have your children reading is very important,” Mrs. Smith said during the relaunch ceremony.
Mrs. Smith also acknowledged the contributions of former Director of the BVI London Office, Ms. Dawn Smith, whose partnership with BookTrust London helped establish the programme, as well as support received from the Social Development Department.
Although the initiative was eventually suspended because of funding constraints and other challenges, it has now been revived through the combined efforts of the Rotary Club of Road Town, Walkers BVI and the BVI Reading Council.
BVIHSA expressed gratitude to all partners and supporters involved in bringing the programmes back to life, describing the initiatives as examples of compassionate, community-driven action that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of families.
Health officials said both programmes reflect the Authority’s continued commitment to patient-centred care, community engagement and partnerships that improve the wellbeing of residents across the Virgin Islands.