Downtown Revitalization Inc. presents a public forum on homelessness Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the University of the Virgin Islands Administration Building Conference Center. The public is encouraged to express ideas, join resources and share commitment to St. Thomas’ homeless population and downtown revitalization.

Part of the revitalization efforts requires dealing with homelessness issues to clean up and enhance public safety, according to Shelly Williams of DRI in a press release.

"We have heard stories of homeless people living in abandoned buildings and causing dangerous conditions to others nearby, including fires that consume occupied structures," Williams said.

"There are causes and solutions to this issue,” said, adding that the purpose of the forum is to explore both.

Planned speakers include Human Services Commissioner Christopher Finch; Cherise Creque of United Way St. Thomas-St. John; Michael Akin, director of Catholic Charities of the Virgin Islands; and representatives from COAST, the council on alcoholism and drug dependence; National Alliance on Mental Illness; Legal Services of the Virgin Islands; Methodist Training and Outreach Services; and a former homeless person.

Call Williams at 775-1255 or attend the forum to learn how you can make a difference.