The following news release is from the Volusia County Public Information Office:

Volusia County Council, City of DeLand and Stetson University will present a Homelessness Forum from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 21, at Stetson University, 421 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand.

Continental breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. in the Stetson Room of the Carlton Union Building.

The forum’s goal is to update elected officials and community members about the state of homelessness in Volusia County. Participants will address the role of local governments and community organizations in preventing homelessness and providing help.

Lisa Hamilton and Pam Woods will discuss the state of homelessness in Volusia County. Hamilton is the executive director of the Volusia/Flagler County Coalition for the Homeless, and Woods is the Volusia County Schools’ homeless liaison.

Shawn Lane of `Cudas Unhooked will offer tips on helping homeless youth succeed, and Randy Croy, executive director of the Haven Recovery Center, will discuss permanent housing solutions for families.

Dr. William Ball, an associate professor of political science at Stetson University, will facilitate group discussions.

The public is invited, and there is no charge for attendance. Reservations are required and may be made by calling Carrie Butler at (386) 943-7039 by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18. For more information, please call Bobbie King at (386) 736-5953.