During this recent Veterans Day celebration, I wanted to call attention to a growing problem – homelessness.
An annual Point In Time survey of homeless in Springfield, MO in 2020 found:
- There were 247 unsheltered individuals
- More than 75% were white males over the age of 35
- About 10% were veterans
- More than 80% said they were suffering from a disability
Ten percent were veterans. Note that in 2020, there were 247 unsheltered individuals. Looking at the data from 2021 shows there are 540 unsheltered individuals in Springfield, MO on any given night, double that reported for 2020. This study also showed that unsheltered veterans were up 9%. It’s time to stop talking about unsheltered humans as statistics and time to consider taking action to make a change. Consider advocating for reducing hostile architecture. Consider getting involved in Eden Village, Habitat for Humanity, or give back to our campus veteran’s center. Our campus veterans center is looking for donations of: coffee, coffee cups, plates, spoons, forks, or snacks (you can take donations to Meyer Library Room 108). It’s time to start giving back in ways big or small to a community who gave us freedom.