What We Know: As Springfield honors its veterans with a parade, local advocates are reminding the community that some who served our country are still struggling to find a place to call home.
What it Means: A spokesman with the Ozarks Alliance to End Homelessness says 27 veterans are currently reported as homeless in the area, although the actual number could be higher.
He says rising rents and a shortage of affordable housing are making things worse. He estimates Springfield is short more than 8,000 affordable homes.
An Army veteran in attendance says pride sometimes keeps veterans from asking for help. His message to fellow veterans is simple: Don’t be afraid to reach out.
What’s Next: Advocates say while veteran homelessness has declined locally, there’s still work to be done.
(Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock)