Why Students Should Care About Homelessness in Knoxville

As college students, it is easy to get caught up in our own world. Between, classes, exams, game days, friends, and everything else, we are busier than a lot of people think. Because of that, homelessness in Knoxville is something that doesn't really cross our minds. But after starting our campaign with the Volunteer Ministry Center, I’ve realized that this issue is a lot more relevant to us than we think, and it’s something every student should care about.

Every day, countless amounts of people in Knoxville are battling homelessness. A crazy thing to think about is that some of them are only a few years older than us. Some are veterans, parents, or people who hit a rough patch that could happen to anyone. With Knoxville’s rising rent prices and limited affordable housing, the line between “stable” and “struggling” is thinner than most students realize.

Many students do not see this issue, as many of them live on or very close to campus where homelessness is not as much of an issue. But if you drive a couple miles into downtown or North Broadway, it is a completely different scene.

                                                                

We’re lucky to attend a university where we have so many opportunities. Supporting the VMC is a way for us to give back to the city we call home during our time at UT. Whether it’s through donations, sharing our campaign, or simply understanding the issue, students have so many ways to help out.

Remember, VOL means ALL, so let's support the ones who need it most right now.

Donate or share our campaign here: https://gofund.me/07e779b2a

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