AARP Virgin Islands is applauding Governor Albert Bryan Jr.'s proclamation designating August 14, 2026, as Social Security Day in the U.S. Virgin Islands, recognizing the 91st anniversary of one of America's most successful and enduring programs. The proclamation highlights Social Security's vital role in the lives of Virgin Islanders and its lasting contribution to the Territory's economic well-being.
The Social Security Act was signed into law on August 14, 1935, creating a foundation of financial security for retirees, people with disabilities, surviving spouses, and families. Today, Social Security remains a lifeline for thousands of Virgin Islanders. According to the Social Security Administration, approximately 22,695 Virgin Islands residents receive Social Security benefits, including 18,419 retired workers, 1,137 disabled workers, 1,154 surviving spouses and family members, 803 spouses, and 1,182 children. Nearly 19,110 beneficiaries are age 65 or older.
The program's impact extends far beyond individual households. Social Security provides more than $36.9 million in monthly benefits to Virgin Islanders, translating into hundreds of millions of dollars flowing through the Territory's economy each year.
In his proclamation, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. noted that Social Security has "transformed the lives of millions of Americans, including more than 22,000 residents and their families of the United States Virgin Islands," and emphasized that the program "has become the foundation of economic security for generations of Virgin Islanders."
"More than one in five Virgin Islanders depend on Social Security, making it one of the most important economic and anti-poverty programs in our Territory," said Troy De Chabert-Schuster, State Director for AARP Virgin Islands. "For many older adults, people with disabilities, and surviving family members, Social Security is not simply a monthly benefit, it is the difference between stability and hardship. As we commemorate the 91st anniversary of Social Security, AARP remains committed to protecting and strengthening the benefits that Americans have earned through a lifetime of work."
The Governor's proclamation also recognizes Social Security's role in helping Virgin Islanders meet essential needs such as housing, food, and health care while affirming a commitment to preserving the program for future generations. The proclamation further notes that Social Security "has stood the test of time, providing peace of mind and financial security to people across all walks of life."
AARP Virgin Islands is joining AARP offices nationwide throughout August in recognizing Social Security's 91st anniversary and educating residents about the benefits they have earned. The observance coincides with AARP's ongoing advocacy efforts to protect Social Security and ensure Americans continue receiving the full benefits they have earned through a lifetime of contributions.
AARP encourages Virgin Islanders to mark Social Security Day by learning more about their earned benefits and understanding the critical role Social Security plays in supporting financial security for current and future generations.
Offical Governor's proclamation: Gov Proc Social Security Day (Aug. 14, 2026)
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