The community is invited to “Pints for Polio,” a fundraiser organized by the Rotary Clubs of USVI North. The event is set for Friday at the Typhus Beer House from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This social gathering aims to support a serious global health initiative, the complete eradication of polio. Attendees can enjoy an evening of karaoke, raffles and prizes, and food, with all proceeds directed to Rotary International’s PolioPlus Fund.
The PolioPlus Fund is a critical part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, a coalition that includes major global health bodies like the World Health Organization, the CDC, UNICEF, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Tricia Homer, president of the Rotary Club of Charlotte Amalie, emphasized the long-term commitment behind the event. “For nearly forty years, eradicating polio has been Rotary’s primary humanitarian focus. This event is a way for our community to contribute directly to that mission. Every donation made on Friday helps protect children from this preventable disease.”
The global fight against polio is in its final stages, but the work is not yet complete. According to the latest data from the GPEI, wild poliovirus is now endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan, with only a minimal number of cases reported worldwide in 2025. However, the persistence of vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks in areas with low immunization rates underscores the continued need for vigilance and funding.
Rotary International’s contributions to this cause are substantial, having provided more than 2.7 billion dollars and immense volunteer support to immunize over 3 billion children globally. These efforts have been overwhelmingly successful, reducing worldwide polio cases by more than 99.9% since 1988.
The local clubs, comprising the Rotary Club of St. Thomas, the Rotary Club of Charlotte Amalie, and the Rotary Club of St. Thomas Sunrise, are uniting to host this public event. Organizers encourage everyone to come out for an evening of music and community spirit in support of a polio-free world.
For more details, visit cheersforpolio.eventbrite.com.
St. Croix Source
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