The Family Support Network (FSN), a vital nonprofit organisation assisting vulnerable families in the British Virgin Islands, has received a timely donation from CIBC Caribbean to replenish its food pantry.

On January 21, representatives from CIBC Caribbean—including Nelson Ramirez, Relationship Manager, Platinum Banking; Roschelle Smith, Compliance Manager; and Valissa Graham, Business Banking Manager—presented several cases of sardines, tuna, and soda crackers to FSN Pantry Coordinator Sandra Mills. The donation was part of an internal initiative in which bank staff contributed their 2024 hurricane provisions to support the pantry’s efforts.

FSN’s pantry provides non-perishable food and essential household items to families in need, particularly those facing financial hardship or domestic crises. Recently, the organisation had been experiencing shortages of protein-rich staples such as canned fish, making the bank’s contribution especially critical. Mills expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasising its importance in meeting the dietary needs of those the FSN serves.

The Family Support Network offers more than just food assistance. The nonprofit serves as a critical resource for individuals affected by domestic abuse, providing counseling, advocacy, and long-term support, including employment training and resumé writing services to help clients rebuild their lives.

“CIBC Caribbean has been a steadfast partner in our mission,” said FSN Interim Executive Director Prudence Charles. “Through monetary contributions, gift baskets, and pantry supplies, their generosity has made a real difference in our ability to serve the community. We deeply appreciate their continued support.”

The bank’s ongoing collaboration with FSN reflects its commitment to social responsibility and community resilience across the Virgin Islands.

FSN serves clients on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada. Those interested in supporting the organisation can contact the office via email at info@familysupportbvi.org. Donors and beneficiaries can drop off or collect items Monday through Friday at FSN’s office on Chalwell Street, Road Town, by appointment at (284) 542-2085. For emergencies, individuals can reach FSN at (284) 499-0999.

This Valentine’s season, the Tortola Auto Group (TAG), the British Virgin Islands’ leading auto dealership, is giving residents another reason to fall in love—with a new car. Throughout February, TAG is hosting its “Deals 2 Love” sales event, offering exclusive incentives on a wide selection of vehicles, from sedans and SUVs to pickups by Hyundai, Honda, Changan, and GAC.

Running from February 1st to February 28th, the promotional event presents buyers with compelling perks, including complimentary NAGICO Insurance coverage, free servicing for a year, or cashback options to sweeten the deal.

In an effort to make car ownership more accessible, TAG has partnered with Republic Bank to provide financing options of up to 100% at an interest rate of 7.25%. Customers can also take advantage of an in-person Promotional Sale event on Saturday, February 15th, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the parking lot adjacent to Republic Bank in Road Town.

“Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating what you love, and for many, that includes finding the perfect vehicle,” said Shan Mohamed, TAG’s Managing Director. “We are committed to making this experience as rewarding as possible by combining quality vehicles with exciting deals.”

Republic Bank echoed its enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its support for customers seeking to finance their purchases. “Our Relationship Officers will be available on-site to assist with the pre-qualification process and provide insights into our financing requirements,” the bank stated.

For more details, prospective buyers can visit TAG’s showroom at Slaney Point, call 494-2600, or browse available inventory at www.tagbvi.com. Terms and conditions apply.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has made it clear that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot enter school grounds in the U.S. Virgin Islands without a judicial warrant. In a memorandum issued on January 29,  to cabinet members and government staff, Bryan outlined strict guidelines for handling ICE activity, particularly within public schools.

“Schools should not permit the agent to enter the school building without a warrant signed by a judicial officer,” the governor stated in the directive. He emphasised that administrative warrants, which are issued by immigration authorities but not approved by a judge, do not grant access to non-public locations such as schools.

The guidance also makes clear that ICE agents cannot question students without parental consent or request immigration-related information from school staff. Disclosing such details without a judicial order or subpoena could violate students’ rights.

Bryan instructed school officials to report any ICE presence immediately. “The Commissioner of Education shall immediately notify the Attorney General of reported ICE activity,” the memorandum states.

The governor also reaffirmed that local law enforcement officers are not required to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. “Federal ICE activity is not sanctioned or assisted by local law enforcement,” he wrote, stressing that peace officers in the territory are responsible for protecting residents and enforcing local laws, not aiding federal immigration operations.

The directive has been met with support from education officials and community advocates.

“Our job is to educate and protect children, not to act as immigration enforcers,” said a senior Department of Education official. “This guidance ensures that our schools remain safe spaces for all students.”

Immigrant rights advocates also welcomed the governor’s stance. “Families should not have to live in fear that dropping their child off at school could result in an immigration encounter,” said a spokesperson for a local advocacy group.

While ICE has not publicly commented on its operations in the territory, Bryan’s memorandum sends a strong message that the USVI government will not facilitate federal immigration enforcement in schools.