Amid heavy rain and windy weather Saturday, the homeless population of St. Croix received clothing, toiletries and food as part of a pre-Thanksgiving luncheon put together by Fixxers VI.

Those in need gathered under the roof of the Christian “Shan” Hendricks Vegetable Market in downtown Christiansted as they sorted through the donated clothing and goods.

The pre-Thanksgiving luncheon event was coordinated by Fixxers VI, an organization of young adults who promote a positive attitude in the community. Fixxers VI founder Eliza Rampersad began the organization with other likeminded individuals, but focused her attention on those in poverty and the homeless in the Virgin Islands.

“This is us giving back to the community in St. Croix to actually reach out to those that are homeless," Rampersad said. “The idea came about because Thanksgiving is coming next week, why not bless those while we will be enjoying our blessings next week.”

While serving those in line, Fixxers VI committee member Losika Molyneaux said, “There are four locations that are being served.” “There is Fredericksted market, Christiansted market, Mon Bijou and Peter’s Rest.”

Each location was stocked with toiletries such as soap, toothpaste and deodorant, as well as clothes. More than 200 plates of food were prepared with donations by individuals from the community as well as businesses such as Food Town, Plaza and CostULess.

Also helping out the Fixxers VI organization was local musician and videographer Kai Moolenear, part of the “K’Faktor” duo. Moolenear was a part of a documentary on homelessness produced by Fixxers VI.

“In the process of doing the documentary, when you go out to certain locations you realize this is serious,” Moolenar said. “It changed my entire mentality, just looking at homelessness … I rather be a part of the solution."

Those receiving the much-needed supplies included one recipient who said “it means we get to eat!”

Another said he has been trying to keep above water, but since the island’s economy slumped, it’s been harder.

“I have been looking for a job for months," said the man, who did not give his name. "I was a Hovensa scaffolding erector, and since they closed the plant I have been doing odd jobs for over a year now.”

Many of those in attendance thanked the servers from Fixxers VI, and smiled and laughed with one another.

Anyone interestede in supporting Fixxers VI or learning more about the organization can contact Rampersad at 1-340-332-9448.