Our View

In the Jan. 22 issue of the Index, TruLife editor Mara Callahan wrote about hidden homelessness in Kirksville. We, the Index Editorial Board, think awareness and action are necessary for Truman students like us to give back to the community that has given us the space to grow.

Many students will only live in Kirksville for a short period of time, and they rely on Kirksville residents in many ways. The shops, restaurants, bars and community events are what make this new college experience feel like home. However, there seems to be an imbalance between what students benefit from within their community and what they give back. 

This town does a lot to accommodate the large body of students who move throughout it. There are events designed just to welcome students, and many times we take the free samples only to give our business to chain restaurants throughout the year. If we are going to pay Truman State University for our attendance, maybe we pay the community as well. 

Students should give a considerable amount of their time here helping others when they can. You do not need to be in a service fraternity or sorority to help out. Truman organizations offer events for unaffiliated students to help out during the year as well.

The homelessness issue in our area may not be in front of our faces 24/7, but it is still there. And it is strong. The problem doesn’t stop at Truman students. Many students struggle without anyone else ever noticing. It’s time we start giving back to support this community that always supports us.