D.C. Roundup: $4.3 million in COVID-19 vaccine aid for Virgin Islands, Todman nomination

In all, $4.3 million is on the way to the Virgin Islands for COVID-19 vaccine aid from the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, according to Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett’s office. 

The St. Thomas East End Medical Center and Frederiksted Health Care Incorporated on St. Croix will be able to use the funds to support and expand COVID-19 vaccination efforts. The money, which was made available in the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan signed by President Joe Biden earlier this month, will also be used to deliver preventative medicine to vulnerable populations in the territory.

The funds will help beyond the pandemic, as well, by improving physical infrastructure and adding mobile units.

Another big update from Washington, this time at the White House. 

President Biden has nominated Adrianne Todman to serve as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. She was born in raised in the Virgin Islands.

Todman previously served as the legislative director in former Congressman Ron de Lugo’s office. She currently serves as the chief executive officer of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) and has since 2017.

Todman’s confirmation will now go to the U.S. Senate where she is expected to be confirmed.