USVI - Local pediatrician, Dr. Anthony Ricketts of Pediatric Care Center, donated 20 booster seats to the VI Office of Highway Safety’s (VIOHS) Booster Seat Drive. The initiative aims to provide new booster seats to approximately 73% of students, ages 4 to 7, who were observed leaving elementary school campuses illegally and unsafely. In the territory, child passengers in this age category are required to ride in the back seat, using booster seats with seat belts.

With the primary goal of promoting child health and wellness, participating in the drive was a natural fit for the pediatric group. The Center encourages caregivers to take an active role in securing their child passengers. “Law enforcement plays a critical role in seat belt compliance,” stated Assistant Practice Coordinator, She'Nel Tyrell-Rawlins. “However, at the end of the day, it is our responsibility, as parents, to make sure that our children remain safe.” Rawlins added that ordering the seats was a simple and inexpensive three-day process and passionately encourages other business owners to support the cause.

The VIOHS will continue to accept donated seats through the new year. “We are so grateful for the generous support received so far,” offered, VIOHS Director Daphne O’Neal. “However, we have a long way to go to address this dire community need.” O’Neal encourages the community to continue to rally around this life-preserving cause.

Become one of our Booster Seat Drive Partners Today! For more information or to contribute to the booster seat drive, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov or Occupant Protection Planner/Coordinator Denise Gomes at denise.gomes@vipd.vi.govdenise.gomes@vipd.vi.gov. You may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025 or (340) 473-7383.

Buckle up, VI! Every trip! Everyone! Every time!